Ben Stokes breaks Brendon McCullum’s record for number of sixes in Test cricket

Ben Stokes surpassed Brendon McCullum’s world record number six in Test cricket on the third day of England’s match against New Zealand.

Stokes came to the crease as England still needed more runs to build their lead having lost Harry Brook and Joe Root just before tea break.

Unsurprisingly, it didn’t take long for him to go on the attack, with the hosts opting to target the England captain with the short ball.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, Stokes went for a hook shot from Scott Kuggeleijn and nailed it over the fine leg limit for a maximum.

Those six were the 108 of his Test career, and he was fully aware of the milestone when he cracked a smile after the record was confirmed.

Ben Stokes nailed a thin leg hook shot to break Brendon McCullum’s record sixes

McCullum, who has revolutionized English Test cricket along with Stokes since becoming head coach last year, was more than happy about his record and gave the all-rounder a huge round of applause to acknowledge the achievement.

Stokes did not have to wait long for his peak number 109, as he hit another six on the next ball.

His second shot was far less convincing, however, as he slammed it towards Neil Wagner, but he stepped on the rope and carried the ball over the bound.

England have made a habit of breaking records in recent months with Stokes leading the way, with James Anderson and Stuart Broad becoming only the second pair in Test history to take 1000 wickets while playing together on Friday.

Stokes went on to make 31 before being stumped by Tom Blundell off Michael Bracewell’s bowling.

Root’s half-century, Brook and Ben Foakes ensured England posted 374 in their second innings, setting New Zealand on 394 to win.

Broad then took the first wicket of New Zealand’s second innings by bowling Devon Conway, taking him and Anderson’s partnership to 1002 wickets, moving them one ahead of the legendary combination of Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath.