New Zealand has always been a formidable opponent in One Day International (ODI) cricket. Their disciplined bowling, challenging playing conditions, and ability to perform well under pressure have posed a stern test for the world’s best batters. Despite this, several legendary players have managed to assert their dominance over New Zealand—affectionately known as the 'Black Caps'—thanks to their aggressive batting style and exceptional six-hitting prowess.
Over the past few years, nations such as Pakistan, India, the West Indies, Sri Lanka, and England have produced several outstanding 'power hitters' who have enjoyed significant success against New Zealand. These players have not only scored crucial runs but have also entertained cricket fans by hitting long sixes across various venues and playing conditions. Currently, Shahid Afridi leads the list of batters who have hit the most sixes against New Zealand in ODI cricket. India’s Rohit Sharma follows closely behind and could potentially claim the top spot during the ongoing ODI series between India and New Zealand.
Top 5 Batsmen with the Most Sixes Against New Zealand in ODIs
| Rank | Player | Country | Matches | Sixes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shahid Afridi | Pakistan | 38 | 50 |
| 2 | Rohit Sharma | India | 34 | 49 |
| 3 | Chris Gayle | West Indies | 29 | 45 |
| 4 | Sanath Jayasuriya | Sri Lanka | 47 | 41 |
| 5 | Jos Buttler | England | 28 | 29 |
5. Jos Buttler
England’s aggressive wicketkeeper-batter, Jos Buttler, ranks among the top five players to have hit the most sixes in ODIs against New Zealand, having struck 29 sixes so far. Buttler is renowned for his aggressive batting style, his ability to execute unconventional shots, and his knack for scoring runs rapidly during the middle and death overs. His powerful hitting establishes him as one of the most dangerous limited-overs batters in contemporary cricket.
In 28 ODIs against New Zealand, he has accumulated 832 runs, with a highest score of 129. Buttler is capable of playing both traditional cricketing strokes and highly unorthodox shots, making it difficult for bowlers to anticipate his next move. His performances against New Zealand underscore his vital role within England’s batting lineup.
4. Sanath Jayasuriya
Former Sri Lankan opener Sanath Jayasuriya hit a total of 41 sixes against New Zealand in ODI cricket, placing him fourth on the list in this regard. Jayasuriya played a pivotal role in transforming the approach to opening the batting in ODIs. During the 1996 Cricket World Cup, his aggressive batting in the opening overs helped establish a new style of 'attacking cricket.'
Against New Zealand, Jayasuriya played several brilliant innings, amassing a total of 1,519 runs across 47 ODIs. His highest score against the 'Black Caps' (the New Zealand team) was 140. He was equally effective against both fast bowlers and spinners, utilizing his strong wrists and aggressive mindset to strike numerous boundaries. His ability to score runs rapidly established him as one of Sri Lanka's most vital ODI players. With 41 sixes to his name, Jayasuriya remains one of the most successful 'power hitters' against New Zealand.
3. Chris Gayle
Legendary West Indies batter Chris Gayle has hit 45 sixes against New Zealand in ODI cricket. Known as the 'Universe Boss,' Gayle was one of the most dangerous opening batters in the history of the sport. Opposing bowlers feared him due to his powerful batting, extraordinary strength, and his ability to hit long sixes.
In 30 ODIs against New Zealand, Gayle scored 1,026 runs, with a highest score of 135. One of his greatest strengths was his ability to completely dominate the game during the powerplay. Once in his rhythm, Gayle could take on even the most experienced bowling attacks and shift the momentum of a match in a very short span of time. His 45 sixes against New Zealand stand as a testament to his immense power-hitting capability and his profound impact on international cricket.
2. Rohit Sharma
Indian opener Rohit Sharma sits in second place on this list, having hit 49 sixes in ODIs against New Zealand. Known for his excellent batting technique, precise timing, and ability to hit long sixes, Rohit has consistently troubled New Zealand bowlers. Once settled at the crease, he becomes exceptionally dangerous. His pull shots, lofted drives, and powerful shots over the mid-wicket boundary establish him as one of the finest six-hitters in contemporary ODI cricket.
In 34 ODIs against New Zealand, he has scored 1,134 runs, with a highest score of 147. His performances against the 'Black Caps' (the New Zealand team) include several significant contributions across both bilateral series and ICC tournaments. According to recently released statistics, Rohit trails Shahid Afridi by just one six. In upcoming ODI matches, he has a great opportunity to become the player with the most sixes hit against New Zealand.
1. Shahid Afridi
Legendary Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi holds the record for hitting the most sixes against New Zealand in ODI cricket. Over the course of his international career, he struck a total of 50 sixes against the Kiwis. Afridi was renowned for his fearless batting, powerful hitting, and his ability to shift the momentum of a match in just a few overs. His aggressive style made him one of the most entertaining batters of his generation.
In 38 ODIs against New Zealand, he scored 1,078 runs, with an unbeaten 108 being his highest score. His capacity to attack both pace and spin bowling made him a formidable opponent for New Zealand. Afridi’s record of 50 sixes remains a significant milestone, though Rohit Sharma has now come very close to surpassing it.
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