Sachin Tendulkar Praises Kane Williamson and Tim Southee on Their Landmark 100th Test

Sachin Tendulkar praised the two, describing them as the 'torchbearers of New Zealand cricket'

Kane Williamson and Tim Southee of New Zealand entered the rare group of players who have played 100 Test matches for their country during the second Test against Australia in Christchurch. The pair stepped onto the pitch with their children before the match, and the umpires gave them a standing ovation.

The spectators in attendance also gave Williamson a standing ovation as he stepped out to bat, but the 33-year-old failed to capitalise on his milestone Test, scoring just 17 runs.

Meanwhile, famous cricketer Sachin Tendulkar praised the two, describing them as the ‘torchbearers of New Zealand cricket’. He said that they had been playing cricket since the U19 World Cup in 2008, and it is only fair that they play their 100th Test together.

“Kane Williamson and Tim Southee have been the torchbearers of New Zealand cricket ever since they burst onto the scene at the 2008 U-19 World Cup. It is only fitting that they also play their 100th Test match together around 16 years later. All the very best to them for their landmark match against familiar foes Australia,” Sachin wrote on his X account.

Once again, the hosts encountered difficulties in showcasing their batting prowess during the second Test match. Renowned fast bowler Josh Hazlewood secured a five-wicket haul, supported by Mitchell Starc’s three wickets, as New Zealand succumbed to a mere 162 runs in their first innings. Opener Tom Latham emerged as the highest individual scorer for his team with 38 runs, while five players failed to reach double-digit scores.

Meanwhile, Steve Smith’s struggles against the new ball persisted, managing only 11 runs, whereas his opening partner Usman Khawaja contributed 16. Marnus Labuschagne took charge of the situation thereafter, yet Australia’s batting performance left much to be desired as they lost four wickets on Day 1.