Cricket is a game of strategy, but some players have the remarkable ability to change the tempo of a match with sheer power. Among these, a few have left an indelible mark with their ability to hit sixes in Test cricket. Let’s take a look at some of the most prolific six-hitters in the history of Test cricket. As of January 2025, the top players with the most sixes in Test cricket are:
1. Ben Stokes (England)—133 sixes in 110 matches
Ben Stokes, the England cricket star, is known for his aggressive batting style and has made a mark in Test cricket with his ability to hit sixes. As of January 2025, he holds the record for hitting the most sixes in Test cricket, with a total of 133 sixes in 197 innings(110 matches).
Stokes broke the previous record of 107 sixes, which was held by New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum, in February 2023. His attacking approach to batting has not only helped him achieve this milestone but has also contributed significantly to England’s success in Test cricket, particularly in matches where he has displayed his all-rounder skills.
In addition to his six-hitting prowess, Stokes has been a match-winner for England, contributing with both bat and ball in critical moments. His aggressive mindset has been a key feature of the modern-day approach to Test cricket, as he plays a central role in England’s dynamic, fast-paced style of play under the leadership of captain Ben Stokes himself.
2. Brendon McCullum (New Zealand)—107 sixes in 101 matches
Brendon McCullum held the record for the most sixes in Test cricket until it was surpassed by Ben Stokes in 2023. McCullum hit 107 sixes during his career in 101 Test matches. His aggressive batting style, particularly in the longer format, was a hallmark of his game, and his record stood as a testament to his fearless approach to Test cricket.
This record was broken by Ben Stokes, who hit more than 107 sixes in fewer innings, marking a new chapter in aggressive Test cricket batting.
3. Adam Gilchrist (Australia)—100 sixes in 96 matches
Adam Gilchrist, the former Australian wicketkeeper-batsman, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of cricket, particularly known for his aggressive batting style. While Gilchrist is known for his impact in both Test and limited-overs cricket, his contribution in Test cricket is significant, especially with his ability to hit sixes.
Record for Sixes in Test Cricket:
- Total Sixes: Adam Gilchrist hit 100 sixes in 96 Test matches.
- This made him one of the most prolific six-hitters in Test cricket during his career.
Gilchrist’s aggressive batting, especially in the middle and lower order, helped revolutionize the role of wicketkeeper-batsmen in Test cricket. His fearless approach to batting, which often included quick, powerful shots, made him a constant threat to bowlers and a match-winner for Australia.
Despite his record being surpassed by others like Ben Stokes, Gilchrist’s contribution to the game remains unparalleled in terms of both his batting and his leadership behind the stumps. His aggressive yet composed style influenced many modern cricketers.
4. Tim Southee (New Zealand)—98 sixes in 107 matches
Tim Southee, the New Zealand cricketer, is renowned for his aggressive batting, especially in the lower order. As of December 2024, he has hit 98 sixes in 107 Test matches, placing him fourth on the list of most sixes in Test cricket.
Southee’s aggressive batting has been a hallmark of his career, contributing significantly to New Zealand’s lower-order resilience. Notably, in his debut Test match against England in 2008, he scored 77 runs off 40 balls, including nine sixes, showcasing his potential as a powerful hitter.
In his farewell Test match against England in December 2024, Southee added to his tally, hitting three sixes and further solidifying his position among the top six-hitters in Test cricket history.
Southee’s aggressive batting, combined with his exceptional bowling skills, has made him a key figure in New Zealand cricket, leaving a lasting impact on the game.
5. Chris Gayle (West Indies)—98 sixes in 103 matches
Chris Gayle holds the record for hitting the most sixes in Test cricket by a West Indian player, with a total of 98 sixes in 103 Test matches. Known for his power-hitting and aggressive batting style, Gayle was a major force in Test cricket during his career, often clearing the boundary with ease.
He is one of the few players to consistently hit long sixes, and his record places him among the top six-hitters in Test cricket history.
6. Jacques Kallis (South Africa)—97 sixes in 166 matches
Jacques Kallis, in addition to his incredible batting and bowling skills, was also known for his ability to hit sixes in Test cricket.
- Most Sixes in Test Cricket: Kallis hit a total of 97 sixes in 166 Test matches. While his primary strength was in playing long, patient innings, his ability to accelerate and hit boundaries when needed added another dimension to his game.
His aggressive batting, combined with his skill as a bowler, made him one of the most complete cricketers in the history of the game.