• Kane Williamson scored a brilliant century against South Africa on Day 3 of the Bay Oval Test.

  • New Zealand are holding a substantial lead of 528 runs over South Africa after the end of third day's play.

Twitter reactions: Kane Williamson’s masterful century puts New Zealand on top against South Africa on Day 3 of the 1st Test – NZ vs SA 2024
Kane Williamson (Image Source: Twitter)

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On the Day 3 of the first test match at Bay Oval between New Zealand and South Africa, Kane Williamson showcased his batting mastery, following his first-innings century with an enterprising 109 off 132 balls. This stellar performance propelled New Zealand to a commanding lead of 528 runs, ending the day at 179/4.

South Africa’s batting collapse and New Zealand decision to bat again

South Africa, resuming the day at 80/4, struggled against the disciplined Black Caps bowlers who secured wickets at regular intervals. Facing the relentless New Zealand bowling attack, South Africa’s batter, with the exception of Keegan Petersen (45), failed to display resilience, getting bundled out for 162 and conceding a significant lead of 349 runs to the hosts. Despite the option to enforce the follow-on, Tim Southee chose to bat again. In the second innings, New Zealand lost Tom Latham (3) early, but Williamson and Devon Conway (29) built a substantial partnership, making it evident that the Kiwis aimed to bat the visitors out of the game.

Kane Williamson’s steady progress and crucial partnerships

Williamson, in tandem with Conway, forged a crucial second-wicket stand of 92. While Conway fell to Neil Brand after a slog-sweep to deep midwicket, Williamson continued steadily. The first-innings hero, Rachin Ravindra, contributed 12 runs and added 41 runs with the former captain, before falling to Ruan de Swardt.

Also READ: New Zealand announces a strong 14-man squad for South Africa Tests; Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra return

Williamson’s flourish

The highlight of Williamson’s innings came at the stroke of stumps on Day 3, showcasing his class and dominance. As he reached his century, Williamson exhibited his batting prowess with a punch on the off side for a single, swiftly followed by a majestic six over wide long-on in Brand’s next over. The display of aggressive yet controlled strokes demonstrated Williamson’s command over the game. However, the innings ended with a stumping on 109 as he attempted another big shot on the leg side against Brand. New Zealand concluded the day at 179/4, building a substantial lead of 528 runs with Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell at the crease.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Also READ: New Zealand vs South Africa 2024, Test Series: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, USA & other countries

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