New Zealand's Tim Southee in his farewell Test missed out on becoming the first lower order batter to hit 100 sixes in the format. Southee had 98 sixes before his last Test innings with the bat and needed two more to join the likes of Adam Gilchrist (100 sixes), Brendon McCullum (107 sixes), Ben Stokes (133 sixes).
"Such an honour to do what I've been able to do. 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)," Southee told the broadcasters after the end of Day 3's play at Seddon Park, Hamilton.
In the first innings, Southee hit three sixes in his 10-ball 23 cameo. He surpassed Jacques Kallis (97 sixes) and equalled Chris Gayle's tally (98 sixes). In the second innings, he departed after scoring two runs from five deliveries. He got out to left-arm spinner Jacob Bethell in an attempt to hit a six.
Southee happy in McCullum's presence
Late into the third session on Day 3, he knocked over Ben Duckett. Southee is happy that his former teammate and current England coach Brendon McCullum is there for his farewell game.
"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," the 36-year-old said.
"Any moment you take a wicket for New Zealand 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," he added.
New Zealand set for a big win
New Zealand have set a mammoth target of 658 in Hamilton. England have already lost two wickets for 18 runs. New Zealand are expected to bowl out the visitors on Day 4 of the final Test of the series.
