On the opening day of the third Test between New Zealand and England at Seddon Park, Hamilton, the star of New Zealand cricket Tim South who is playing the last Test of his career hit the headlines with a remarkable achievement.
Primarily known for his bowling prowess, Southee showcased his batting skills securing a unique milestone that marked his name in the history of cricket. The bowling bowler surpassed the legendary Jacques Kallis to move into the top five players with most sixes in Test cricket.
Tim Southee’s explosive knock
During New Zealand’s first innings, Southee played a brief but impressive cameo, scoring 23 runs off just 10 deliveries. His attacking innings included three towering sixes and a boundary. While his contribution may look modest on paper, these three sixes propelled Southee into the elite club of Test cricketers with the most career sixes. With a career tally of 98 sixes, Southee surpassed South African cricket legend Jacques Kallis, who has 97 sixes to his name.
Southee’s feat also tied him with former explosive West Indies opener, Chris Gaylewho similarly holds 98 sixes in Test cricket. With New Zealand still having one more game to play in this Test, fans and analysts expect him to soon surpass Gayle and climb even higher in the rankings. This record highlights that while Southee is renowned for his bowling, his batting skills should not be underestimated.
Also SEE: Tim Southee receives a guard of honor and a standing ovation at Seddon Park in his farewell Test | ENG vs NZ 2024
Southee’s milestone in Test cricket
Southee reached this milestone in dramatic fashion during his short but impressive innings. Facing Ben Stokes in the 79th over, he smashed a short ball cleanly over mid-wicket for his 96th six. Two balls later, he hit a flat, powerful shot over deep backward square for a six on 97. In the next over, Southee danced down the track to a short ball from Gus Atkinson and blasted it over deep mid-wicket, taking his tally to 98 sixes in Test cricket.
His aggressive approach eventually led to his dismissal as he attempted another big shot but missed, resulting in a win by Braydon Carse from Atkinson’s bowling. Southee’s entertaining knock, though short, was met with a standing ovation from the crowd in recognition of the milestone he achieved during his stint in the middle.
