Australian bowlers out to dampen Williamson's 100th Test

WELLINGTON, March 6, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - Seamer Mitchell Starc said Australia's bowlers aim to ensure New Zealand world-class batsman Kane Williamson doesn't stay long at the crease on his 100th Test appearance.
New Zealand host Australia in Christchurch when the second Test begins on Friday. The tourists lead the two-match series 1-0 after Australia romped to a 172-run win in the opening Test.
Both Williamson and New Zealand Test captain Tim Southee will play their 100th Test at Hagley Park. Starc says the Australians want Williamson removed quickly.
"During the game, (the aim is) to make it as short as possible," Starc told reporters Wednesday when asked about Williamson's milestone.
"Anytime you can get one of the best batters in the world out is always a nice little touch. The sooner the better."
Williamson, who has chalked up nearly 9,000 Test runs, had a torrid time in the first redball game against Australia, which finished Sunday.