Longest Six in Cricket History: Who Holds the Title?

Following on from last weeks' OCB blog article about the Fastest ball in cricket history, this week we're serving up another dose of cricketing curiosities for those of you who love stats and records.

In this article, we'll tell you about the longest six in cricket, and who else came close in the record books. As you may know, a six in cricket refers to when a batter hits the ball over the boundary rope without the ball touching the ground, scoring 6 runs automatically.

But what about the longest six in cricket? Let's dive in and find out. And if you want to place bets on sixes, take a look at our cricket match predictions and tips page.

Measuring a Six – A Question of Perspective

Measuring a six might seem simple at first glance: from bat to boundary. But in practice, things get complicated. Elevation, trajectory, wind, the angle of contact, even the slope of the ground; all these factors make precise measurement difficult.

Older records relied on rough estimates, while modern technology tries to be more accurate, yet debates persist. Even with modern tracking systems, controversies remain.

What is the Longest Six in Cricket History?

The official record for the longest six in international cricket is heavily debated due to changes in measurement technology over time. However, the most commonly cited long-hit belongs to Pakistan’s Shahid Afridi.

Shahid Afridi (2013) - 153 metres

In an ODI vs South Africa in 2013, Afridi is believed to have smashed the ball up to 158 metres. He knocked the ball completely out the stadium, in a display of sheer power and perfect timing. Afridi was already known for his aggressive batting style, but this six cemented his place in cricket history.

While the exact measurement is debated, this six was not only about distance but also about impact: it lifted Pakistan’s spirits during a tough chase and added to Afridi’s legendary status. Fans across the globe celebrated this moment, and it remains a reference point for aspiring power-hitters today.

Other Record Sixes

The world of cricket has seen many monstrous sixes in cricket, aside from Afridi's. Here's a few more stand out sixes in history:

Brett Lee (2005) - 143 metres

Aussie fast bowler, Brett Lee, delivered one of the longest sixes in cricket history at The Gabba in a 2005 Test match against West Indies. Like Afridi's six, Lee knocked the ball out the stadium and gave the crowd one of the best sixes they'd ever seen.

Martin Guptill (2012) – 127 metres

New Zealand's Guptill’s 127-metre six was struck against South Africa in a T20 International in 2012. Known for his clean hitting, Guptill’s massive six showcased his ability to dominate bowlers and energise his team. Fans still talk about this shot as an example of pure power combined with technique.

Corey Anderson (2014) – 122 metres

Another New Zealander, Anderson’s ODI six against India in 2014 stunned everyone. Not only did it travel 122 metres, but it also came at a crucial point in the match, swinging momentum in New Zealand’s favour. This shot exemplified Anderson’s rise as a world-class power-hitter.

Liam Livingstone (2021) – 122 metres

In a T20I match against Pakistan in 2021, England batter Liam Livingstone produced a 122-metre six that reminded fans why he is considered one of the most explosive hitters in modern cricket. The ball cleared the stadium effortlessly, thrilling spectators and adding another record-breaking performance to his career.

Glenn Maxwell (2025) - 122 metres

In the 2024/2025 Big Bash League (BBL) clash, Glenn Maxwell smashed a colossal 122-meter six off Kane Richardson. During a match between the Melbourne Stars and the Melbourne Renegades, Maxwell left spectators in awe with this powerful six and managed to set a new benchmark in the league's history.

Mark Waugh (1997) – 120 metres

Even in Test cricket, which is generally slower-paced, Australia's Mark Waugh proved that big sixes are possible. Against New Zealand in 1997, Waugh’s six measured 120 metres, combining elegance with power.

Other Power Hitters Who Dominate the Boundary

Beyond the record-breaking hits, several batters have consistently impressed with their ability to clear the ropes. Chris Gayle’s sheer strength and timing have made him a global spectacle, while MS Dhoni’s signature helicopter shot has thrilled fans in crucial moments.

Yuvraj Singh brought fearless aggression to the crease, and Corey Anderson and Shahid Afridi have each delivered many memorable sixes throughout their careers. These players may not always break distance records, but their ability to hit with power and precision keeps us on the edge of our seats.

Conclusion

Powerful batters like these remind us that the thrill of a six isn’t just about distance, it’s about timing, skill, and sheer audacity.

From Shahid Afridi’s monstrous strike to Martin Guptill and Corey Anderson’s towering hits, and the memorable efforts of Liam Livingstone and Mark Waugh, these shots have thrilled fans across formats and generations.

Whether 120 metres, 150 metres, or somewhere in between, these sixes leave a mark on memory more than on a measuring tape.

In a way, the thrill of the longest six is as much about legend and storytelling as it is about metres; the debates, the controversies, and the sheer spectacle are what make them unforgettable.

Be sure to come back to our Cricket Blog for more stats, player insights and more.

Stats retrieved from:
Crictracker.com
Wikipedia.com