A Century of Sixes

A Century of Sixes.
When I was lucky enough to hit Malinga for a six over mid-wicket in the recent Hobart Test match, I suddenly remembered that I only needed to hit two more to record a "Century of Sixes". But I must say that it was never my intention to hit two more off Murali! He is too good a bowler for a batsman to plan to hit him out of the ground before he bowls!

In actual fact, I never predetermine that I am going to try to hit a six. It just happens. I am of the opinion that the cricket ball is there to be hit rather than defended, and this sometimes leads to my demise. When you are batting well, things sometimes just fall into place, and the outcome can be a big hit which may go right out of the playing field. Sometimes the ball goes even further - maybe right out of the ground! We have seen some huge hits lately, and players like Andrew Symonds and Mike Hussey really give the ball a lacing. Lance Cairns is another who hit the ball to the far distant reaches of playing arenas.

So now, as the first player to reach a Century of Sixes in Test cricket, I would like to give this advice to young players - never premeditate what shot you are going to play to any bowler until you see what that bowler has delivered to you. You might be the biggest hitter in the team, but a wrong decision, and especially a decision made before the ball is bowled, can lead to your dismissal. Wait until you know what you are dealing with, then plan the stroke accordingly.

And watch the ball!