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Tim Southee-led New Zealand registered a comprehensive 281-run win over South Africa in the opening Test of the two-match series at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. The match was nothing short of a one-sided affair with Kane Williamson hitting back-to-back tons and Rachin Ravindra bringing his maiden double century in Tests.
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After the staggering win, youngster Rachin Ravindra was awarded the Player of the Match for his knock of 240 off 366 balls. After claiming the POTM award, Rachin was asked if would like to share his award with veteran Kane Williamson. However, the 24-year-old was quick to react as he bluntly refused to share it.
“Nah, not at all. He’s got 31 hundreds for my one, so I’m not giving that one. Any time you contribute to the win, it makes you feel special. As long as you’re giving your best, you’re made to feel you belong, and it’s driven well by the coaching staff,” the New Zealand star.
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The Kiwi all-rounder also revealed that Kane came up to him to congratulate on his ton. Speaking at the post-match press conference, Rachin Ravindra revealed the conversation he had with Kane in the middle. “After I got to my century, Kane come up to me and said, ‘mate, you’re unbelievable’. It’s so surreal to be receiving that kind of special praise from one of the best batters in the world. It’s the coolest thing I’ve been part of,” he said.
The Kiwis will next take on South Africa in the second Test, scheduled to be played from 13 to 17 February at the Seddon Park in Hamilton.
