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New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has broken a long-standing drought for the Fab Four, notching up a sensational ODI century against South Africa during the Pakistan Tri-Series 2025 in Lahore.
Scoring 100 runs off just 72 balls, Williamson displayed his signature elegance and precision, smashing 11 fours and 2 sixes at an impressive strike rate of 127.06. His innings came at a critical moment, as New Zealand chased a competitive target set by South Africa.
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Williamson’s Century Shines Amid Fab Four’s Dry Spell
While Williamson’s masterclass innings rejuvenated New Zealand’s campaign, it also underscored the ongoing century drought of his Fab Four contemporaries – Virat Kohli, Joe Root, and Steve Smith.
The table below illustrates the prolonged wait for an ODI hundred among cricket’s most celebrated batting quartet:
| Players | Days Since Last ODI Century |
|---|---|
| Joe Root | 2068 days |
| Steve Smith | 883 days |
| Virat Kohli | 453 days |
| Kane Williamson | 0 days |
Williamson last reached the milestone in 2019 against West Indies, scoring 148 runs at Old Trafford, Manchester during the ODI World Cup. Now, after six long years, the New Zealand skipper has finally ended his ODI century drought, reaffirming his status as one of the finest batters of his generation.
New Zealand Dominate in Lahore’s High-Scoring Thriller
The second match of the Pakistan Tri-Series 2025 between New Zealand and South Africa took an exhilarating turn, with the Proteas posting a formidable 304-6 in 50 overs.
However, led by Williamson’s brilliant knock, New Zealand chased the target with ease, showcasing their dominance against a formidable South African attack.
Regardless of the match outcome, Williamson’s composed century, especially at 34 years of age, highlights his enduring class and determination. With this momentum, New Zealand now looks to capitalize on their captain’s resurgent form as they prepare for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.
