New Zealand's Kane Williamson celebrates his century against England, Hamilton, 2024. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Another century from Kane Williamson on his most successful ground has propelled the Black Caps into a dominant position heading into the fourth day of the third and final test against England.
Williamson's 33rd test century helped the Black Caps through to 453 in their second innings in Hamilton, with a lead of 657 runs. By stumps on day three, England were 18/2.
Williamson has scored seven centuries in 12 tests at Seddon Park with Monday's knock his fifth successive test ton at the ground.
"It's a beautiful ground, (I've) played a lot of my cricket here growing up as well in age group and for Northern Districts," Williamson said.
Williamson was not really challenged during his innings of 156, which came off just 204 balls.
"In recent years, there have been some varying characteristics of the pitch and it was nice to spend some time out there today and build a bunch of partnerships and get a big total on the board.
"It was a nice job by the collective to go out there and make sure we put those runs on the board and get that total."
Matt Henry and Tom Southee picked up a wicket each to have England in trouble in their chase for a record-winning score.
The highest successful fourth innings run chase in test history is the 419 the West Indies scored to beat Australia in 2003.
"There is a big job to do as the ball gets a bit softer and the wicket becomes a bit friendlier to bat on so a big push tomorrow," Williamson said.
Southee is playing his 107th and last test for New Zealand.
Williamson said it was nice to share a moment with his long-time New Zealand and Northern Districts team-mate.
"It was certainly special him leading us out onto the park. A lot of incredible memories and (he's) an outstanding servant of the game and just a huge player for us over the years.
"His leadership and how he carried himself throughout his test career and has been a big part of why this team has been in a pretty strong place for some time."
Play on day four will start at 10:30am with England 18/2 with Jacob Bethell on nine and Joe Root yet to score.
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