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The highly anticipated first Test match between New Zealand and Sou𒊎thꦕ Africa kicked off on Sunday, setting the stage for an exhilarating battle. Hosted at the iconic Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, the match began with a mix of excitement and tension as both teams aimed to make t𒀰heir mark early in the series.
A shaky start for the Black Caps
New Zealand openers faced early setbacks after South Africa opted to bowl first. Devon Conway, the talented batter, fell victim to Tshepo Moreki’s bowling in just the second over of the day, managing only a single run. Shortly after, Tom Latham‘s departure at the hands of Dane Paterson for 20 runs left the Black Caps reeling at 39/2 in 16.5 overs, adding pres🍃sure on the middle order.
Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra shine with impressive centuries
In a remarkable display of resilience and skill, former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and young sensation Rachin Ravindra turned the tide in favour of the hosts. The duo formed an unbeaten partnership of 219 runs for🏅 the third wicket, showcasing exceptional batting prowess and determination.
Williamson’s masterful innings marked his 30th Test century, a testament to his consistency and brilliance on the cricket field. Ravindra, playing his first Test in two years, complemented Williamson’s performance with a well-deserved century of his own, highlighting his potential as a promising talent in the New Zealand cricket scene.
They dep𒁃arted the field in unison, recognizing their opportunity to make significant contributions on day two. Williamson remained unbeaten on 112 from 259 deliveries, achieving his 30th Test century, while Ravindra, stood undefeated on 118 runs from 211 balls.
Twitter reacts to the dominant batting display
As Williamson and Ravindra’s centuries propelled New Zealand to a commanding position in the first Test, cricket enthusiasts took to Twitter to express their admiration and excitement. The impressive partnership between the two batters garnered widespread praise, with fans and experts alike acknowledging the significance of their contributions to the team’s success.
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
Here is how Twitter reacted:
DAY 1 – STUMPS
A tough day in the😼 office for the Proteas as Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra notched centuries for the Black Caps 🇿𝄹🇦🇳🇿
🇳🇿 New Zealand are 2️⃣5️⃣8️⃣/2️⃣
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA)
That Kane Williamson 30th test cent🔥ury was inevitable. Super player.
— Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi)
KANE WILLIAMSON HAS 5 HUꦉNDREDಌS IN LAST 9 INNINGS IN TESTS. 🤯
– Number 1 ranked Test batter in the world.
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns)
MAIDEN TEST HUNDRED FOR RACHIN RAVINDRA…!!! 🫡
A dream last 12 months for Rachin – he cannot do anything wrong. What a talent for New Zealand, he's taking giant steps in international cricket.
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra)
Century for Kane Williamson ✨💗✨
He is back 🚬🗿&mdas🐲h; $o7fan 🚬﷽(offline .. inactive.. a retired smoker ) (@MJann71132)
Had a no phone day today l, Went to the Cricket with my Dad and brother,
Was great to see Kane Williamson scored yet another century
But even better to see Ravindra come of age as a test Cricketer ,
Geeze it was hot am absolute🌸ly shattere🍌d after sitting out in sun all day— Nobody special (@Shane58637790)
Maiden test century for Rachin Ravindra. Everyone's looking to be in fine touch.
— Heisenberg ☢ (@internetumpire)
What a player! Kane Williamꦯson brings up his 30th test century! 👏👏 v South🌳 Africa: 1st Test | LIVE on DUKE and TVNZ+
— TVNZ+ (@TVNZ)
Test century No.30 for Ka🔯ne Williamson 🤝 Test Cent🍒ury No.1 for Rachin Ravindra
Mome𝄹nts to savour for the men ou🔥t in the middle in Mount Maunganui 👏
Follow 📲
— ICC (@ICC)
Fewest i♚nnings to score 30 hundreds in Tes💫t cricket:
159 – Sachin Tendulkar
162 – Steve Smith
167 – Hayden
169- Kane Williamson **
170- Ricky PontingHe i💮s the first Kiwi batter to do so.🉐 The modern day great for a reason.
— Rafi (@rafi4999)
Ohhh Rachin, Our Starboy!💫🦁💛
Rachin Ravindra, Long way to go…— Hustler (@HustlerCSK)
Kane Williamson is back after injury and continuing his go🔥od form on home ground.
Came in tough situations and delivers the classicꦍal 5️⃣0️⃣ for the team.He is taking full advantage of inexperienced south African attack.
— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991)
Test Hundred No💧. 1 for the supremely talented Rachin Ravindra
— #BackTheBLACKCAPS 🇳🇿 (@KW_Fans436)
Maiden test century for Rachin Ravindra.
Gets a ch𒅌anc🌠e at number 4 & capitalises it immediately.
— Nawaz 🇵🇰 (@Rnawaz31888)
