Kane Williamson, one of the modern era’s finest batsmen, became the 5th New Zealand player to score centuries in both innings of a Test during the opening match against South Africa in Mount Maunganui. With these twin centuries, New Zealand is well-positioned to lead 1-0 in the two-match series.
Despite facing challenges from South African bowlers, New Zealand, aided by Rachin Ravindra’s double century and Williamson’s ton, posted a substantial total of 511 in the first innings.
The inexperienced South African batting struggled against the formidable New Zealand pace attack. Despite some getting starts, no one could convert them into substantial scores. Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson took three and two wickets, respectively, while spinners Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra had similar returns.
New Zealand opted not to enforce the follow-on, allowing Williamson to complete his second century of the match. Ending Day 3 with a commanding lead of 528 runs, Williamson scored a fluent 109 off 132 balls, featuring 12 fours and a six.
Here are the 5 New Zealand Cricketers Who Have Registered Centuries In Both Innings Of Test Matches:
#1 Glenn Turner scored 101 and 110 against Australia in Christchurch in 1974
Glenn Turner, the first New Zealand batsman to achieve twin centuries in a Test, accomplished this feat in 1974 against Australia. Known as one of New Zealand’s finest players, Turner displayed a solid defensive technique along with a versatile range of strokes.
In the second Test of the 1974 series against Australia, Turner’s centuries in both innings played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s five-wicket victory. Despite bowling Australia out for 223 in the first innings, the hosts couldn’t fully capitalize on the advantage.
Apart from Turner, other batsmen struggled, resulting in New Zealand posting only 255. Chasing a target of 228, New Zealand found themselves at 62/3, but Turner’s unbeaten 110 ensured victory for his team.
#2 Geoff Howarth scored 122 and 102 against England in Auckland in 1978
Geoff Howarth, one of the early professional cricketers from New Zealand, was a skilled middle-order batsman and a useful off-spinner, featuring in 47 Tests and 70 ODIs. He achieved the rare feat of scoring twin centuries in a Test match.
In 1978, Howarth became the second New Zealand batsman to score centuries in both innings of a Test. Renowned for his elegant driving, he contributed 122 and 102 in a drawn match. Howarth’s superb 122 helped New Zealand reach a competitive total of 315 in their first innings.
Despite England’s significant lead with Clive Radley’s impressive 158, which consumed considerable playing time, Howarth’s determined 102 off 301 deliveries played a crucial role in helping New Zealand save the Test.
#3 Andrew Jones scored 122 and an unbeaten 100 against Sri Lanka in Hamilton in 1991
Andrew Jones, although achieving success relatively late, concluded his Test career as one of New Zealand cricket’s finest products. The robust No. 3 batsman accomplished the remarkable feat of scoring twin centuries in a Test against Sri Lanka in 1991.
Jones, known for his unconventional style in the cricket landscape of the 80s and 90s, developed a jumping technique against short deliveries, proving effective in bouncy conditions. In Hamilton, he posted scores of 122 and an unbeaten 100 against a formidable Sri Lankan side, resulting in a draw.
Jones contributed a hard-fought 122 in the first innings as New Zealand reached 296. Capitalizing on a narrow lead, he scored an unbeaten century in the second innings as Martin Crowe declared at 374. Ultimately, a brilliant century from Asanka Gurusinha saved the Test match for Sri Lanka.
#4 Peter Fulton scored 136 and 110 against England in Auckland in 2013
Despite falling short of 1000 runs in his Test career, Peter Fulton holds the distinctive record of scoring centuries in both innings of a Test match. Not known for technical finesse, his average of 25.44 contributed to his eventual removal from the squad.
Yet, during his limited time with the New Zealand senior team, Fulton crafted two splendid centuries against England in a Test match in Auckland in 2013. Fulton’s 136 in the first innings played a key role as New Zealand reached a commendable total of 443.
A remarkable spell from Trent Boult left England struggling, and New Zealand secured a substantial 239-run lead in the first innings. Fulton continued England’s woes with a second-innings century. Despite New Zealand dominating until the final day, England managed to salvage a draw with just one wicket remaining.
#5 Kane Williamson scored 118 and 109 against South Africa in Mount Maunganui in 2024
Kane Williamson recently made history by scoring centuries in both innings of a Test against an inexperienced South African team, elevating his status as a cricket great. His stellar performances steered New Zealand to a dominant position in the inaugural Test.
In the first innings, despite a reprieve, Williamson capitalized on the opportunity, reaching a century. However, his remarkable feat was somewhat overshadowed by Rachin Ravindra’s extraordinary 240 at No. 4.
Opting not to enforce the follow-on, Tim Southee provided relief to his bowlers. In the second innings, Williamson’s aggressive 109 off 132 deliveries has positioned New Zealand favourably, targeting victory on Day 4.
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