New Zealand vs South Africa, ODI Tri-Series – February 10, 2025
In a thrilling encounter during the second Match of the ODI tri-series in Lahore, New Zealand’s Kane Williamson made an explosive impact, scoring a brilliant 72-ball century. This remarkable performance helped New Zealand chase down a target of 305 set by South Africa, highlighting his immense skill ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Williamson Equals AB de Villiers in International Hundreds
With this century, Williamson scored his 14th one-day international century, tying South Africa’s AB de Villiers on the list of players with the most international hundreds. Williamson reached this milestone in just 365 matches, while de Villiers finished his career with 47 centuries from 420 matches. Both players now share the joint 14th spot on the prestigious list, which is topped by India’s Sachin Tendulkar with an astonishing 100 international hundreds.
Fastest ODI Century for Williamson
Kane Williamson’s century came in just 72 balls, making it the second-fastest ODI century of his career. This performance was a signal of intent as he gears up for the upcoming Champions Trophy, sending a strong warning to his rivals.
Partnership with Devon Conway Steers New Zealand
Williamson, who looked in full control from the outset, formed a crucial partnership with Devon Conway. The duo added 187 runs for the second wicket after New Zealand lost Will Young for 19. Conway played a valiant knock of 97, falling just short of a deserved century.
Williamson’s Aggressive Approach
Throughout his innings, Williamson showcased his aggressive style, frequently stepping down the track to unsettle both pacers and spinners. He struck 11 boundaries and two sixes on his way to 100, highlighting his ability to dominate bowlers with ease.
Record of Most International Hundreds
The following is a list of the top players with the most international hundreds in cricket history:
- Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 100 Hundreds (664 matches)
- Virat Kohli (India) – 81 Hundreds (544 matches)
- Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 71 Hundreds (560 matches)
- Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 63 Hundreds (594 matches)
- Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – 62 Hundreds (519 matches)
- Hashim Amla (South Africa) – 55 Hundreds (349 matches)
- Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 54 Hundreds (652 matches)
- Brian Lara (West Indies) – 53 Hundreds (430 matches)
- Joe Root (England) – 52 Hundreds (357 matches)
- Rohit Sharma (India) – 49 Hundreds (493 matches)
- David Warner (Australia) – 49 Hundreds (383 matches)
- Rahul Dravid (India) – 48 Hundreds (509 matches)
- Steve Smith (Australia) – 48 Hundreds (348 matches)
- AB de Villiers (South Africa) – 47 Hundreds (420 matches)
- Kane Williamson (New Zealand) – 47 Hundreds (365 matches)
A Day After Rohit Sharma’s Century
Williamson’s impressive century came just a day after India’s Rohit Sharma scored his 49th international century in a dominating win over England in Cuttack.
With this performance, Kane Williamson continues to strengthen his reputation as one of the most consistent and formidable batsmen in world cricket, preparing for a strong showing in the Champions Trophy later this year.
Stay connected with ZAFF Trends for the latest updates
