New Zealand and South Africa kicked off their two-game Test series with the first Test at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui from February 4. The clash began with New Zealand coming in to bat first after losing the toss and the hosts got off to a subpar start with the bat.
South Africa put forth a brilliant showing and dismissed New Zealand’s openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway quite early into the clash. Latham was dismissed for just 20 runs as he edged a length ball from Dane Paterson to give a catch straight into the hands of Clyde Fortuin. Furthermore, Devon Conway failed to go big as well, getting dismissed lbw by Tshepo Moreki. The star opener was sent back to the pavilion after scoring just one run in two deliveries as the debutant struck on his very first ball in Test cricket.
However, Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra stabilised the innings for New Zealand, showcasing their class to score their respective centuries and put the visitors in a spot of bother. Williamson finished day 1 unbeaten at a score of 112 runs in 259 deliveries, whereas Ravindra stood unbeaten at 118 runs in 211 deliveries, scoring his maiden Test ton. New Zealand finished 258/2, with the duo adding an unbeaten 219 for the third wicket.