New Zealand’s fast bowler Tim Southee made headlines on the first day of the third Test against England at Seddon Park in Hamilton. Playing what is set to be his final match, Southee equalled the legendary Chris Gayle for the most sixes ever hit in Test cricket.
As he walked out to bat, Southee received a guard of honour, illustrating the respect he has earned throughout his career. He wasted no time getting into the action, hitting Ben Stokes for a six on just his third delivery. Southee quickly followed that up with another maximum, sending the ball over deep backward square leg. Just an over later, he hit his third six off Gus Atkinson, bringing his career total to 98—tying him with Gayle, who achieved the same number in his Test career.
Southee’s exciting innings came to a close when he was caught for a quick 23 runs, which included three sixes and one four. He now stands fourth on the list for the most sixes in Test history and is just two away from becoming the fourth player ever to reach 100 sixes in this format.
As for the match itself, New Zealand concluded Day 1 with a score of 315/9 after 82 overs, thanks to contributions from Mitchell Santner, who finished the day not out on 50. Earlier, the team had a strong start with openers Tom Latham and Will Young. They put together a partnership of 105 runs before Young was dismissed, followed by Latham, who scored 63 runs but was bowled out.
Kane Williamson’s innings ended in an unusual way as he was bowled for 44, leaving New Zealand at 172/3 at one point. Unfortunately, the team faced a batting collapse, losing several wickets quickly and struggling at 231/7. It was Southee’s late innings and Santner’s steady performance that helped stabilize the team and push past the 300-run mark.
