Kane Williamson smashes 33rd Test century, equals Steve Smith in Fab 4 race

New Zealand batter Kane Williamson registered his 33rd Test century in the third Test against England at Hamilton, New Zealand on Monday.

The modern-day great scored 156 runs before being dismissed by spinner Shoaib Bashir. His innings included 20 fours. The hosts have extended their lead past 600 on a rain-affected third day.



Resuming from 50 on Day 3, Williamson crafted his innings with patience and precision. Despite a few nervy moments, including an lbw appeal on 73 that was deemed an umpire's call, the 34-year-old reached his century in style, lofting Jacob Bethell for six to bring up the milestone off 137 balls.

His partnership with Rachin Ravindra, worth 107 runs, frustrated England until Ravindra fell for 44, miscuing a Matthew Potts delivery to Brydon Carse at mid-off.


Seddon Park continues to be a happy hunting ground for Williamson, where he averages an astonishing 98.81, amassing 1,581 runs in 12 Tests. His innings steadied New Zealand after England, already assured of the series win, had threatened early on.

There was a worrying moment for England as skipper Ben Stokes left the field clutching his hamstring during a spell of bowling. As New Zealand tightened their grip on the game, England's bowlers endured the same toil their hosts faced in the earlier Tests, with few breakthroughs to show for their efforts.