WTC Final: ‘It’s nice to get one under the belt’ – NZ skipper Kane Williamson on winning maiden ICC title

Kane Williamson and other NZ players after winning the WTC Final

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson, alongside Ross Taylor, indulged in a match-winning partnership for the third wicket against India at the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final. The Kiwis clinched the maiden title of the WTC after beating the Virat Kohli-led side by eight wickets at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton.

Chasing an easy target of 139 on the reserve day of the WTC Final, NZ comfortably crossed the finishing line. After winning the historic title, Williamson credited every member of his side for playing their part. He said:

“It’s a special feeling. It’s nice to get one under the belt. I’d like to thank Virat and the Indian team. The heart that our team showed was commendable. It’s the first time we have come away with a world title, and the 22 players who played a big part in getting across the line deserve all the appreciation. This will be remembered for a long time. We don’t always have all the stars, and we saw that in this match. We saw so much heart and commitment,” Kane Williamson said during the post-match presentation ceremony.

“I’m happy we’re on the right side”: Williamson

Kane Williamson during the post-match presentation ceremony

The 30-year-old pointed out that the current Indian team is such a strong side in all conditions which resulted in no advantage for both nations. Williamson also talked about the contribution of New Zealand’s lower batsmen in the first innings and he’s glad to finish on the right side.

“We know how strong the Indian side is, in all conditions. It’s a fickle game, in a one-off final. It ebbed and flowed, no one really had the upper hand for six days, and I’m happy we’re on the right side of it. It was certainly tough going in the first innings. The lower order played with more freedom and got us a lead that gave us an edge,” he added.

The skipper stated that Ross Taylor’s experience played a crucial role in the end. He concluded while sharing final remarks on BJ Watling, who was playing the final Test match of his career.

“Ross is obviously very experienced and calm in these situations and it was great to be with him right there at the end. BJ Watling – I don’t know if he’s retiring anymore actually (jokes). He’s a scrappy player, so this is a fitting end to a fantastic career for BJ Watling,” Williamson signed off.

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