Kane Williamson made history by becoming the first New Zealand player to score 9,000 Test runs. This remarkable achievement came during the first Test against England at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.
Williamson, who had been sidelined due to a groin injury that kept him out of the India Test series, marked his return in style by reaching the milestone on the third day of the match, during New Zealand's second innings.
The 34-year-old achieved this feat in 103 Tests, joining the ranks of legendary batters Kumar Sangakkara and Younis Khan as the third-fastest to reach 9,000 Test runs.
The record for the fastest to this mark belongs to Australia's Steve Smith, who did so in his 99th Test, surpassing Brian Lara’s record of 101 Tests. Williamson’s achievement adds another impressive chapter to his illustrious career.
In the second innings, Williamson played a vital role in New Zealand's efforts, contributing 61 runs. He formed two significant partnerships with Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell, helping to steady New Zealand’s innings before being dismissed by Chris Woakes.
His earlier knock of 93 runs in the first innings also contributed to New Zealand’s total of 348. During that innings, Glenn Phillips remained unbeaten on 58*, with Brydon Carse and Shoaib Bashir taking four wickets each for England.
England responded strongly in their innings, with Harry Brook playing a stunning knock of 171 runs. Captain Ben Stokes also contributed 80, and Ollie Pope added 77 runs, leading England to a commanding total of 499 and a 151-run lead.
By the time of filing the report, New Zealand was struggling at 155/6, with Daryl Mitchell and debutant Nathan Smith at the crease.
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