2nd Test: New Zealand in a commanding position after double hundred by Kane Williamson against Pakistan

Skipper Kane Williamson hit his fourth double century to help New Zealand declare with a 362-run lead over Pakistan and end Day 3 of the second Test in a commanding position.

Apart from Williamson, Henry Nicholls and Daryl Mitchell also scored brilliant hundreds to propel New Zealand to 659/6 in reply to Pakistan’s 297 before the declaration. Shan Masood fell for a duck in the eighth over and Pakistan went to stumps at 8/1, still 354 behind.

Pakistan had been in the field for 158.5 overs, almost two full days, and the task of facing New Zealand’s fresh attack before stumps was a daunting one. The visitors are staring at an innings defeat at Hagley Oval.

Pakistan could not make the most of the overcast conditions and the second new ball and Azhar Ali spilled a catch at gully to allow



Nicholls to complete his seventh Test century. Pakistan dropped several catches in the match and were equally sloppy with the ball conceding 64 extra runs.

Williamson scored 238 and collaborated in a marathon 369-run partnership, a New Zealand record for the fourth wicket, with Nicholls, who made 157. Williamson briefly delayed his declaration to allow allrounder Mitchell to reach a maiden Test century.

"Probably hasn't sunk in quite yet, but it's a special feeling. Grateful to him (Kane) for giving a couple of extra overs to get the hundred. His knock was amazing. He set us up, hopefully, we will get the remaining wickets tomorrow. I was relieved more than anything (on the emotions of getting a hundred)." Mitchell, who made 102 not out, said afterward.