India has etched its name in the annals of Test cricket history by becoming the first team to smash 100 sixes in a calendar year. This remarkable feat was achieved on Day 3 of the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, marking a watershed moment in the sport.
The Rohit Sharma-led side has been on a six-hitting spree throughout 2023, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill leading the charge with 29 and 16 sixes respectively. This achievement surpasses the previous record of 89 sixes set by England in 2022.
India’s dominance in this aspect is a testament to their aggressive approach and the presence of power hitters in their batting lineup. The team’s ability to clear the boundary with ease has put pressure on opposition bowlers and created scoring opportunities.
In the ongoing Test against New Zealand, India’s batting prowess was on full display. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Sarfaraz Khan all struck fluent fifties, keeping their team in the hunt despite a significant first-innings deficit. Kohli’s knock was particularly significant as he reached the milestone of 9,000 Test runs.
New Zealand had earlier posted a formidable total of 402, thanks to Rachin Ravindra’s century and Tim Southee’s quickfire 63. However, India’s counter-attacking approach has given them a glimmer of hope in the match.
With two days remaining in the Test, India faces an uphill task to chase down the target and secure victory. However, their ability to hit sixes at will could prove to be a game-changer.
