New Zealand great Kane Williamson made a brilliant return to Test cricket after almost a year, delivering a calm and controlled knock against West Indies in the first Test at Christchurch. Despite the early wicket of Devon Conway, Williamson looked in complete command and not only scored a vital 52 runs, but also achieved a major milestone in Test history.
Williamson Surpasses Hashim Amla in All-Time Test Runs
Williamson entered the match with 9,276 Test runs. The moment he reached 7 runs, he overtook legendary South African batter Hashim Amla, who has 9,282 Test runs.
With his latest innings, Williamson now stands at 9,328 career Test runs, moving to 16th place globally in the list of highest run-scorers in Test cricket. He is also inching closer to becoming New Zealand’s first-ever 10,000 Test-run player — a landmark no Kiwi batter has achieved.
Top New Zealand Run-Scorers in Test Cricket (Updated)
| Player | Test Runs |
|---|---|
| Kane Williamson | 9,328* |
| Ross Taylor | 7,683 |
| Stephen Fleming | 7,172 |
| Brendon McCullum | 6,453 |
| Tom Latham | 5,841 |
Williamson is already New Zealand’s highest Test run-scorer and remains one of the top active run-makers globally, behind only Joe Root and Steve Smith.
In New Zealand innings, the start was shaky as Devon Conway fell for a duck in the very first over. But Williamson steadied things with senior partner Tom Latham. Together, the duo added 94 runs, taking New Zealand out of trouble.
Williamson knock of 52 off 102 balls, including 6 boundaries, reflected his trademark patience and timing. He was eventually dismissed by Justin Greaves, but by then he had ensured a strong foundation for his team.
Fifth Team Against Whom He Crossed 1,000 Test Runs
With this match, Williamson also crossed 1,000 Test runs vs West Indies, making it the fifth team against whom he has reached the milestone.
He has earlier repeated the feat against:
- England
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- South Africa
This highlights his adaptability and consistency across conditions and oppositions.
Before this Test, Williamson last played a Test match in December 2024 in Hamilton, where he smashed a superb 156-run century against England. His return after a long break shows that his technique and temperament remain world-class.
Both Teams Playing XI
New Zealand
Tom Latham (C), Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Will Young, Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell, Nathan Smith, Zakary Foulkes, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy.
West Indies
Tagenarine Chanderpaul, John Campbell, Alick Athanaze, Shai Hope, Roston Chase (C), Justin Greaves, Tevin Imlach (wk), Kemar Roach, Johann Layne, Jayden Seales, OJ Shields.
Kane Williamson comeback has not only boosted New Zealand top order but also added another golden chapter to his legendary Test career. Crossing Hashim Amla tally, returning with a solid fifty, and moving closer to the 10,000-run club marks a perfect start for the Kiwi star in the new Test season.
