New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee failed to reach the landmark of 100 sixes in Test cricket as he got dismissed for 2(5) on Day 3 of the third Test against England at Seddon Park, Hamilton. Notably, Southee needed just two sixes to enter the 100 sixes club in his last innings in Tests.
However, much to his dismay, he got dismissed for 2 while trying to go big against Jacob Bethell but ended up being caught at long on. As a result, Southee finished his career as fourth highest six-hitter in the history of Test cricket with 98 maximums from 107 matches.
NZ vs ENG 3rd Test Day 3 Highlights
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.
Engand in deep trouble on Day 3
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.
Apart from him, Will Young (60) and Daryl Mitchell (60) also made valuable contributions. As New Zealand were bundled out late in the day, England had to survive a tricky period in the last hour. However, they failed to come out unscathed as both openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett were sent back into the pavilion.
Crawley was trapped lbw by Matt Henry for 5 while Duckett’s stumps were shattered by Tim Southee, who picked the first wicket in his farewell Test. As a result England finished the day on 18/2 in six overs needing another 640 runs to win.
