Longest Six in Cricket History: Moments Remain Unforgettable

In this article, we’ll examine the List of 9 Longest Six in Cricket History, most impressive sixes ever hit, exploring the context, the players, and why these moments remain unforgettable. Cricket fans live for those spectacular moments when a ball sails over the boundary, especially when it clears the ropes by a mile.

Sixes not only ignite excitement but also display a batter’s power and skill. Some players have made history by hitting the longest sixes in the game, smashing records and thrilling fans worldwide. But what makes these sixes so legendary?

List of 9 Longest Six in Cricket History

1. Shahid Afridi – 153 meters (Pakistan vs South Africa, 2013)

Shahid Afridi is renowned for his aggressive batting style, and his 153-meter six against South Africa in 2013 is a prime example of his power. During the ODI in Johannesburg, Afridi smashed Ryan McLaren for a gigantic six, which flew out of the stadium.

This monstrous hit is the longest six in cricket history, showcasing Afridi’s ability to clear boundaries with ease. Although Pakistan lost the match, this shot remains a defining moment in Afridi’s career. His fearless approach and exceptional strength set a benchmark for all future six-hitters.

2. Brett Lee – 130 meters (Australia vs West Indies, 2005)

Known more for his fiery fast bowling, Brett Lee shocked everyone with a mammoth 130-meter six during a Test match against the West Indies at the Gabba in 2005. This unexpected feat came as a surprise since Lee was primarily a bowler.

Facing a short delivery from Darren Powell, Lee sent the ball over the roof of the stands and into the practice nets. It was a rare moment of power from a player not known for his batting. Despite his focus on bowling, this six is one of the longest in cricket history and remains a career highlight for Lee.

3. Martin Guptill – 127 meters (New Zealand vs South Africa, 2012)

Martin Guptill, a key player for New Zealand, etched his name into history with a 127-meter six against South Africa in 2012. During a T20 match in Wellington, Guptill sent Lonwabo Tsotsobe’s delivery soaring over the midwicket boundary, hitting the roof of the Westpac Stadium.

This enormous hit was not only a display of raw power but also an important moment in the match, as Guptill went on to score an unbeaten 78. His ability to combine timing and power makes this six one of the most memorable in cricket history.

4. Liam Livingstone – 122 meters (England vs Pakistan, 2021)

Liam Livingstone, known for his incredible power-hitting, launched a 122-meter six against Pakistan during a T20 match in 2021. Facing Haris Rauf at Headingley, Livingstone smashed the first ball of the 16th over straight over the bowler’s head, sending it out of the stadium.

This massive hit landed on a nearby rugby field, showing Livingstone’s brute strength. His aggressive batting style has made him one of England’s most dangerous T20 players, and this six remains a standout moment in his career, contributing to England’s victory.

5. Corey Anderson – 122 meters (New Zealand vs India, 2014)

Corey Anderson solidified his reputation as a power-hitter when he smashed a 122-meter six against India in 2014. During the first ODI at Napier, Anderson sent a delivery from Mohammed Shami over the square-leg boundary and onto the roof of the stadium.

This six not only highlighted Anderson’s immense hitting ability but also played a crucial role in New Zealand’s innings, where they posted 292/7. Anderson’s six was a key moment, helping his team secure a victory by 24 runs. His aggressive style and ability to clear the ropes with ease make this six unforgettable.

6. Mark Waugh – 120 meters (Australia vs New Zealand, 1997)

Mark Waugh, known for his elegant and technical batting, surprised everyone with a huge 120-meter six against New Zealand in 1997. Playing at the WACA, Waugh was facing Daniel Vettori when he sent the ball soaring straight down the ground.

This six was a rare display of raw power from a player better known for his timing and placement. The shot came in a Test match, making it even more impressive, given the typically conservative nature of the format. Waugh’s effortless execution made this six a standout moment in his distinguished career.

7. Yuvraj Singh – 119 meters (India vs Australia, 2007)

Yuvraj Singh, known for his powerful batting, made history during the 2007 T20 World Cup by hitting six sixes in an over against Stuart Broad. Among these was a 119-meter monster hit, which was one of the longest sixes in cricket history.

This shot came during a crucial semi-final match between India and Australia at Kingsmead, Durban. Yuvraj’s blistering knock not only helped India win the match but also established him as one of the most dangerous hitters in world cricket. His 119-meter six is still celebrated as a defining moment in the history of T20 cricket.

8. MS Dhoni – 118 meters (India vs New Zealand, 2009)

MS Dhoni, known for his exceptional finishing skills, produced one of the longest sixes in cricket with a 118-meter shot against New Zealand in 2009. This massive six came during the third ODI in Auckland, where Dhoni displayed his ability to hit under pressure.

As one of the best match finishers, Dhoni’s calm demeanor was on full display as he cleared the ropes with ease. His powerful wrist work and excellent timing allowed him to send the ball flying out of the park, cementing his status as a clutch performer in high-pressure situations.

9. Chris Gayle – 116 meters (West Indies vs India, 2010)

Chris Gayle, often referred to as the “Universe Boss,” is renowned for his powerful batting, and his 116-meter six against India in 2010 is a testament to his strength. This remarkable six was hit during the T20 World Cup at the Kensington Oval in Barbados.

Gayle launched a delivery from Yusuf Pathan high and far, clearing the boundary with ease. His ability to effortlessly hit huge sixes has made him one of the most feared T20 batsmen in the world, and this six remains a key highlight of his legendary career.

FAQs

1. Who hit the longest six in cricket history?

Ans: Shahid Afridi holds the record for the longest six ever hit in cricket history, with a staggering 153-meter shot against South Africa in 2013.

2. Who hit the longest six in IPL history?

Ans: Albie Morkel hit the longest six in IPL history, with a 125-meter shot for Chennai Super Kings in 2008.

3. What is the longest six in international T20 cricket?

Ans: Liam Livingstone hit the longest six in international T20 cricket, sending a ball 122 meters against Pakistan in 2021.

4. Does the type of stadium affect how far a ball can travel?

Ans: Yes, stadium conditions like altitude, wind, and boundary size can influence how far a ball travels. High-altitude venues, for example, often see longer sixes due to thinner air.

Wrapping Up

Long sixes are some of the most thrilling moments in cricket, showcasing a player’s power and skill. Whether it’s Shahid Afridi’s world-record 153-meter six or Chris Gayle’s consistent power-hitting, these shots remain etched in the minds of cricket fans. As cricket continues to evolve, we can only expect more record-breaking sixes in the future. So, the next time a ball is sent out of the stadium, remember that it’s not just a six—it’s a moment of history in the making.