Cricket, a sport rooted in history and tradition, has generated numerous great moments. Among these, the rare feat of hitting six consecutive sixes in an over stands out as one of the most thrilling spectacles. Known as “6 ball 6 sixes,” this achievement showcases not just the batsman’s skill but also their audacity and mental strength. Here we will explore the 6 ball 6 sixes record list in international cricket, highlighting the players who have achieved this milestone, the circumstances that made it possible, and its significance in the cricketing world.
What Does “6 Ball 6 Sixes” Mean?
The term “6 ball 6 sixes” refers to the act of hitting six sixes on six consecutive legal deliveries in a single over. The result? A jaw-dropping 36 runs scored in just six balls. This incredible feat is a combination of extraordinary batting, nerves of steel, and impeccable timing. Given the difficulty of hitting six consecutive balls for maximum runs, it remains one of the rarest and most celebrated accomplishments in cricket history.
The Historical Context
The first instance of six sixes in an over in any form of cricket occurred in 1968 when Sir Garfield Sobers, playing in a domestic match for Nottinghamshire, achieved the feat. While this didn’t happen in international cricket, it set the stage for the possibility of such greatness. In international cricket, only a handful of players have managed to etch their names into the 6 ball 6 sixes record list. Each instance has been a remarkable moment, cementing the batsman’s legacy in cricket history.
Pioneers of the 6 Ball 6 Sixes Feat
Let’s take a deeper look at the players who have accomplished this remarkable feat in international cricket.
1. Herschelle Gibbs (South Africa) – ODI World Cup, 2007
The first batsman to achieve six sixes in an over in international cricket was South Africa’s Herschelle Gibbs. The historic moment came during the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup against the Netherlands. Facing leg-spinner Daan van Bunge, Gibbs unleashed six consecutive maximums, scoring 36 runs in a single over.
This extraordinary achievement not only secured Gibbs a place in history but also helped his team post a mammoth total. Gibbs’ innings exemplified the power and audacity that modern cricket demands.
2. Yuvraj Singh (India) – T20 World Cup, 2007
The inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 was the stage for another iconic six-sixes moment. Yuvraj Singh’s stunning display against England’s Stuart Broad in Durban remains one of the most celebrated moments in cricket history
This breathtaking sequence was triggered by a heated exchange between Yuvraj and England’s Andrew Flintoff just before the over began. Fueled by adrenaline, Yuvraj dispatched Broad’s deliveries into the stands, including a monstrous 119-meter six, the longest of the tournament.
This over not only showcased Yuvraj’s ability to perform under pressure but also became a defining moment in T20 cricket, inspiring generations of players.
3. Kieron Pollard (West Indies) – T20 International, 2021
Kieron Pollard joined the elite 6 ball 6 sixes record list in a T20I match against Sri Lanka in 2021. Facing off-spinner Akila Dananjaya, who had earlier claimed a hat-trick in the same match, Pollard turned the tide with his fearless hitting.
Pollard’s achievement was a testament to his immense power and confidence, reminding everyone of the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket.
4. Jaskaran Malhotra (USA) – ODI, 2021
Jaskaran Malhotra became the fourth cricketer to achieve six sixes in an over in international cricket. Playing for the USA in an ODI against Papua New Guinea, Malhotra demonstrated his ability to dominate bowlers, putting associate cricket on the map.
His incredible over not only highlighted his talent but also brought attention to the rise of cricket in non-traditional cricketing nations.
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The 6 Ball 6 Sixes Record List
Here is a detailed table of players who have achieved this phenomenal feat in international cricket:
| Player | Country | Format | Opponent | Year | Bowler |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Herschelle Gibbs | South Africa | ODI | Netherlands | 2007 | Daan van Bunge |
| Yuvraj Singh | India | T20I | England | 2007 | Stuart Broad |
| Kieron Pollard | West Indies | T20I | Sri Lanka | 2021 | Akila Dananjaya |
| Jaskaran Malhotra | USA | ODI | Papua New Guinea | 2021 | Gaudi Toka |
Why Is This Feat So Rare?
Achieving six sixes in an over is no easy task. It requires:
- Perfect Timing : Every ball must be hit cleanly and with precision.
- Immense Power : Clearing the boundary six times demands extraordinary strength.
- Mental Resilience : The batsman must maintain focus and composure throughout the over.
- Pressure Handling : The bowler often tries different tactics to prevent a clean sweep, making it a battle of wits.
The Legacy of Six Sixes
The achievement of hitting six sixes in an over has a ripple effect beyond the match. It:
- Inspires young cricketers to dream big.
- Demonstrates the increasing dominance of batsmen in modern cricket.
- Raises the profile of the players who achieve this milestone.
While the feat may become more common with the evolution of power-hitting, every instance will remain unique and special, celebrated for years to come.
Conclusion
The 6 ball 6 sixes record list is a testament to cricket’s unpredictability and the extraordinary talent of its players. From Herschelle Gibbs to Jaskaran Malhotra, each instance has been a spectacle, offering fans moments of unbridled joy and excitement. As cricket continues to evolve, it’s possible that more players will join this elite list, but the legacy of those who achieved it first will always hold a special place in the annals of the sport.
FAQs
Who was the first player to hit six sixes in an over in international cricket?
Herschelle Gibbs was the first to achieve this feat in an ODI during the 2007 World Cup.
How many players have hit six sixes in an over in international cricket?
Four players – Herschelle Gibbs, Yuvraj Singh, Kieron Pollard, and Jaskaran Malhotra – have achieved this in international matches.
Which bowler conceded the longest six in a 6-ball 6-sixes sequence?
Stuart Broad conceded a 119-meter six to Yuvraj Singh in the 2007 T20 World Cup, the longest in such a sequence.
Is hitting six sixes in an over possible in women’s cricket?
While no one has yet achieved it in women’s international cricket, the growing power and skill of female players suggest it could happen in the future.
