Kane Williamson Achieves Landmark of 9,000 Test Runs for New Zealand

Christchurch, Nov 30 (NationPress) Kane Williamson, the former captain of New Zealand, has made a significant mark in cricket history by becoming the inaugural Kiwi cricketer to tally 9,000 Test runs.

This remarkable achievement took place on Saturday during the initial Test match against England at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. Williamson, who was making his return after a recovery from a groin injury that sidelined him during the India Test series, reached this milestone in the second innings on the third day of the match.

The 34-year-old accomplished this feat in just 103 Tests, tying him for the third-fastest to reach 9,000 Test runs alongside legends Kumar Sangakkara and Younis Khan. Notably, Steve Smith from Australia holds the record for the fastest, achieving the milestone in his 99th Test, surpassing Brian Lara's previous record of 101 Tests.

In his second innings, Williamson added 61 runs, forming two vital partnerships with Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell before being dismissed by Chris Woakes.

Earlier in the match, Williamson scored 93 runs in his comeback innings, helping New Zealand post a total of 348 runs in the first innings. Glenn Phillips remained not out at 58*, while Brydon Carse and Shoaib Bashir each took four wickets.

In response, Harry Brook's remarkable innings of 171, along with contributions from captain Ben Stokes (80) and Ollie Pope (77), propelled England to a total of 499, establishing a solid lead of 151 runs.

As this report was being filed, New Zealand found themselves in a precarious position at 155/6 in 48 overs, with Daryl Mitchell and debutant Nathan Smith at the crease.