Kane Williamson, newly installed as the world’s premier batsman, scored his fourth double century and second in a month as New Zealand forged a commanding first innings lead over Pakistan in the second Test in Christchurch on Tuesday.
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Williamson reached 238 before his marathon innings came to an end three overs before tea, caught in the deep by Shan Masood off Faheem Ashraf.
It continued an amazing home series for the New Zealand captain who has returned scores of 251, 129, 21 and now 238, and has become the third New Zealander to pass 7 000 runs behind Ross Taylor and Stephen Fleming.
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“Not at all surprised to see the consistency of Kane Williamson,” tweeted former India great VVS Laxman.
“Unbelievable work ethics and attention to detail while preparing for any match are the reasons behind his success. A true role model for any youngster to emulate.”
KANE WILLIAMSON IS A GENIUS – MCCULLUM
Brendon McCullum, the only other New Zealand player to score four double centuries, described Williamson as an “absolute genius”.
Williamson’s fourth double century is some way off the record currently held by former Australian great Donald Bradman with 12.
Second place on the list may be something of a surprise as it’s held by former Sri Lankan star Kumar Sangakkara with 11.
Brian Lara follows with nine, then come a trio on seven: England’s Wally Hammond, Sri Lanka’s Mahela Jayawardene and the highest currently active player, India’s Virat Kohli.
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Former Proteas skipper Graeme Smith with five double centuries is the highest place South African in a tie for 13th place.
Smith’s double tons included a highest score of 277 v England in Birmingham in 2003, followed by 259 a week later at Lord’s. He also posted 234 against Pakistan in 2013 and two double tons against Bangladesh: 232 and 200.
The 200 Smith scored in 2002 against Bangladesh came in East London, Smith’s only double century in South Africa.
AMLA AND KIRSTEN FOLLOW
Meanwhile, Hashim Amla has four scores of 200 or more, while former Proteas opener and coach Gary Kirsten raised his bat for a double ton on three occasions.
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