On March 14, 2021, Kieron Pollard became the third cricketer to hit six sixes in an over in T20I history against Sri Lanka, showcasing remarkable power-hitting. This accomplishment followed a hat-trick by Sri Lankan bowler Akila Dananjaya, and despite a middle-order collapse, Pollard’s innings of 38 runs propelled the West Indies to a four-wicket victory.
On March 14, 2021, Kieron Pollard etched his name into the annals of cricket history by becoming the third player to hit six sixes in an over during an international T20I match against Sri Lanka. This remarkable feat occurred at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua, following Sri Lankan spinner Akila Dananjaya’s impressive hat-trick in the previous over, marking a significant turnaround in the match’s momentum.
Sri Lanka set a target of 131 runs, with debutant Pathum Nissanka being the highest scorer with 39 runs off 34 deliveries. However, the West Indies’ bowling unit, particularly Obed McCoy’s outstanding figures of 2 for 25, managed to contain the Sri Lankan batsmen effectively, making the chase manageable for their team.
The West Indies began their innings promisingly, achieving 52 runs without loss within just 19 balls. Evin Lewis and Lendl Simmons were instrumental in establishing this strong foundation, with Lewis contributing 28 runs and Simmons adding 26. However, Dananjaya’s hat-trick dramatically shifted the match in favor of Sri Lanka.
Despite the collapse caused by Dananjaya, who dismissed Lewis, Chris Gayle, and Nicholas Pooran successively, Pollard’s explosive batting in the sixth over restored confidence to the West Indies. Over just one over, Pollard struck six consecutive sixes, displaying astonishing power and skill that rejuvenated his team’s prospects.
Pollard’s innings of 38 runs off just 11 balls turned the tide for the West Indies, despite his dismissal shortly thereafter. His efforts, coupled with all-rounder Jason Holder’s solid contribution of an unbeaten 29 runs, led the West Indies to a successful chase, finishing the innings at 134 for 6 in just 13.1 overs.
Kieron Pollard’s achievement of hitting six sixes in an over during the T20I against Sri Lanka on March 14, 2021, places him among cricket’s elite, alongside notable players like Yuvraj Singh and Herschelle Gibbs. This significant milestone not only showcased his batting prowess but also highlighted the thrilling nature of the match. The ultimate victory for the West Indies underscored the effectiveness of Pollard’s leadership and resilience in critical moments of the game.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
