NZ vs SA: 1st Test, Day 4 Talking Points – Jamieson, Santner star in New Zealand’s 281-run victory
New Zealand’s dominance in the Test match against South Africa was undeniable as they clinched victory by a staggering 281 runs. The momentum was set from the first innings, where Rachin Ravindra’s remarkable double century and Kane Williamson’s century laid a formidable foundation. On Day 4, with overcast conditions challenging the batters, South Africa’s openers fell early. However, Raynard van Tonder and Zubayr Hamza showed resilience until lunch.
The post-lunch session saw both batters departing, but David Bedingham and Keegan Petersen steadied the ship with a commendable partnership. Bedingham’s aggressive play added quick runs before his dismissal post-tea. Kyle Jamieson’s four-wicket haul and Mitchell Santner’s three-wicket spell further shattered South Africa’s hopes. Chasing an ambitious target of 529, South Africa never posed a threat as New Zealand’s bowlers dominated. Jamieson’s brilliance, coupled with Santner’s efficiency, sealed the emphatic victory for New Zealand.
Here are the talking points of the match:
1. Kane Williamson’s back-to-back centuries
Kane Williamson showcased his batting prowess in both innings of the Test match. In the first innings, he scored a resilient 118 runs from 289 deliveries, punctuated by 16 boundaries. Continuing his fine form, Williamson crafted his 31st Test century in the second innings, taking 122 balls and hitting 12 boundaries. However, his stay was brief post-century, as he departed for 109 runs off 132 deliveries, falling victim to South African skipper Neil Brand’s bowling.
2. Rachin Ravindra’s double ton
On Monday, Rachin Ravindra continued his outstanding form in international cricket by smashing his first-ever double-century, propelling New Zealand to a formidable first-innings total against South Africa. Starting Day 2 with an overnight score of 118, the all-rounder surged past the 150-run mark, dominating the morning session. Ravindra’s splendid knock saw him amass 240 runs from 366 deliveries, embellished with 26 boundaries and three sixes.
