Kane Williamson, Tim Southee Aim to Mark Milestones and Salvage Series in 100th Tests for New Zealand
New Zealand veterans Kane Williamson and Tim Southee will enter a select club on Friday when they play their 100th test matches against Australia in Christchurch. The second test, a must-win for the Black Caps to save the series after Australia’s 172-run victory in the first test, will hold extra significance for the duo.
Kane Williamson and Tim Southee have made impeccable contributions to New Zealand cricket throughout their superb career. The 33-year-old Williamson is the country’s leading test scorer with 8,675 runs, nearly 1,000 more than his nearest compatriot. He also boasts over 18,000 runs across all formats, solidifying his status as a batting mainstay.
Southee, 35, sits just behind legendary Richard Hadlee on the all-time test wickets list with 378 scalps. He also holds the record for most T20 international wickets (150) and ranks third in ODIs with 221 wickets.
With his 100th test, he’ll become the second New Zealander and only the fourth player globally to reach the century mark in all three formats.
While both players boast exceptional careers, recent form hasn’t been ideal. Williamson only managed nine runs in the first test, and Southee took just two wickets. However, Williamson’s recent run of seven centuries in eight tests prior to the Australia series showcases his immense potential.
Southee, nearing the twilight of his career, is witnessing the emergence of young fast bowlers like Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears, who is set to debut in the second test. Williamson, despite recent injuries, remains a vital cog in the batting lineup.
Both players enter the crucial second test motivated to contribute significantly and help New Zealand avoid their first home series defeat since 2017.
“Trying to help the team move forward is a real motivating factor for me,” said Williamson. “I’m still learning the art of batting. Every day presents different conditions.
As a player, it’s about understanding your strengths and weaknesses while putting in the effort to improve and accepting that things won’t always be perfect. We need to find ways to be effective.”
With their 100th tests coinciding with a series on the line, Williamson and Southee will hope to mark their milestones with performances befitting their legendary status.
