New Zealand pacer Tim Southee ended just short of reaching 100 sixes in Test cricket, after he was dismissed for just two in his final batting outing in the format, against England in Hamilton on Monday.
He finishes behind Brendon McCullum (107 sixes) as the second-highest six-hitter for his nation. Southee came into the Test match five sixes short of entering the exclusive club and got closer to the milestone by clobbering three maximums in the first innings. Ben Stokes and Gus Atkison were at the receiving end of Southee’s flashing blade which brought the crowd to the edge of the seat.
“It was a strange feeling. Never felt so much pressure coming into bat. But no, it was good fun. Been a great couple of days for the lads. He (McCullum) said something – didn’t quite hear him. But he’s obviously been there for a long part of it and been a great mate. Nice that he’s here for this final time as well. Any moment you take a wicket for NZ is a special time. Like I’ve said before, as a kid growing up, to take one wicket – every time you get that feeling. It’s a feeling I’ll certainly miss. It’s been such a big part of my life. Such an honour to do what I’ve been able to do. Next couple of days will hopefully be a good couple of days, but I’m sure an emotional couple of days as well. Sorry to disappoint (missing out on 100 Test sixes),” said Southee at the end of the day’s play.
Meanwhile, New Zealand were bundled out for 453 in the second innings on Day 3 and set a massive target of 658 runs for England in the fourth innings to complete a 3-0 whitewash. Kane Williamson played a marathon knock of 156 (204) with the help of 20 fours and a six registering his 33rd Test century.
