The introduction of the ICC-World-Test Championship in 2019 added a new competitive edge to Test cricket. Points, standings and a global final suddenly made all series matter. But while bowlers took most of the limelight away and classic innings were played across continents, there was one unexpected statistic that have become a fan favourite unnoticed – the number of sixes smashed in WTC matches.
In a format traditionally based on patience, defence and long sessions, the six has become a symbol of modern Test aggression. Batters no longer fear clearing the ropes even on tricky pitches. And the players taking the lead in this Six hitting race have proved that Test cricket may be as explosive as any contest of limited-overs.
Here’s a look at the top power hitters of the WTC era, taken as per verified information from official cricket records.
Ben Stokes – England’s Ruthless Enforcer
England captain, Ben Stokes, sits at the top of the WTC six-hitting leaderboard and there’s not much surprise there as to why. His batting style combines power and fearlessness. Whether England are playing chase to target or counter-attacking the fast bowlers, the Stokes often enter the aerial route.
In the span of the World Test Championship cycles through, Stokes has cleared the boundary more often than any other player. His ability to shift momentum in one session makes him one of the most influential Test batters of this generation. Many a victory by England in those famous matches in the WTC has been achieved through Stokes bowling the batsmen into the stands at the right time.
Rishabh Pant – What is India’s X-Factor in Red-Ball Cricket?
Few present-day players have transformed the character of Test cricket like Rishabh Pant. His terrifying manner of playing – reverse sweeps, fearless charges down the pitch and breezy sixes – has made him the highest six-hitting force for India in the WTC era.
Pant has planted spinners in mid-wicket stands in Chennai, bashed fast bowlers at The Gabba and finished off swing bowlers in England with discrimination. His six-count in WTC matches is some of the highest in the world. More importantly, many of those maximums have been in High pressure runs chases or India requiring a counterattack to get themselves out of trouble.
Pant’s presence alone has altered the plan on how oppositions approach bowling in the Test cricket.
Rohit Sharma – Timing, Class And Effortless Power
Although Rohit Sharma is retired from Test cricket, the contribution in the World Test Championship is intact. Rohit’s sixes were not merely powerful they were elegant. His pull shot in particular became a signature weapon in the WTC cycle.
Rohit is right up there on the WTC six-hitting charts due to his consistent domination, at home and abroad. Whether performing against spin on turning tracks or fast bowling in England, his clean hitting gave a new edge to India’s top order. Even after suspending his Tests, his six-hitting statistics are among the very best in WTC history.
