Following three days of seesawing Test cricket, it was a steadfast 32nd century from Kane Williamson that steered NZ to a series sweep.

The fourth day began with NZ needing 227 more runs to win. Tom Latham batted for 6 more overs today, until he chipped a catch to short cover, giving Dane Piedt his second wicket.

South Africa were believing, as the pitch had consistent turn and bounce throughout, but the balance soon began to shift slowly towards the Blackcaps.

Williamson made sure no poor delivery went unpunished, while Rachin Ravindra remained careful. They made it through to lunch with minimal concern. Thereafter, it was Williamson taking center stage, as he impressed with his array of strokes.

Meanwhile, Ravindra’s rearguard came to an end upon the reintroduction of Piedt. It was another sharp catch at short cover, and the Proteas felt they got a key opening at a key juncture of the game.

But the excitement was short-lived, as Will Young managed to get his eye in and play second fiddle. The bowlers threatened in patches, but were unable to maintain the intensity against one of the best in the business.

At the latter phases of the chase, it became a straightforward finish for NZ. In addition, this was the highest ever successful 4th-innings chase at Seddon Park. And Williamson now has the most Test centuries in the 4th innings, having reached the milestone for the fifth time today.

As for SA, it was a spirited fightback after a very forgettable first Test. Amid the troubles, there still are plenty of positives to take from the series, given that a few of the players in this group have put their hands up for more game time.

Finally, this is the first ever Test series win for the Blackcaps against the Proteas. From start to end, they have comfortably outperformed, and were rewarded with a rather fitting result.

SA 242 + 235

NZ 211 + 269/3 (Williamson 133*, Young 60* – Piedt 32-4-93-3)