“Sorry to disappoint” - Tim Southee on missing unique batting landmark in farewell NZ vs ENG 2024 3rd Test
Veteran pacer Tim Southee expressed disappointment at falling short of reaching the milestone of 100 sixes in Test cricket on Day 3 of the third and final Test between New Zealand and England on Monday, December 16. The game is being played at Seddon Park in Hamilton.
Playing in his farewell Test, Southee hit three sixes in the first innings, bringing his total to 98. However, when he came out to bat for the final time in Test cricket in New Zealand's second innings, Southee missed the chance to become only the fourth cricketer to hit 100 sixes in the format, being dismissed for just two runs off five balls.
Speaking to broadcasters after the day's play, Southee confessed to feeling more pressure than ever before while batting and reflected on the moment:
"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 honor to do what I've been able to do. The 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),” he continued.
Southee, playing in his 107th Test, has taken 390 wickets and scored 2,245 runs, including seven centuries and 98 sixes. He is only behind Ben Stokes (133), Brendon McCullum (107), and Adam Gilchrist (100) on the list of players with the most sixes in Test cricket.
England lose two early wickets in massive chase of 658 runs
New Zealand scored 347 runs in their first innings and bowled out the visitors for just 143, establishing a 204-run lead. In their second innings, former captain Kane Williamson stepped up, scoring his 33rd Test century with 156 off 204 balls.
A strong team effort saw the Black Caps post 453 runs in their second innings, setting a target of 658 runs. At the close of play on Day 3, England were 18-2, with Jacob Bethell and Joe Root at the crease.