The Sixer's Six: Clearing the Brewongle Roof and Beyond
In the world of cricket, where sixes are a common occurrence, it's easy to forget the sheer magnitude of some of these shots. Take, for instance, the time Steve Smith hit a six that went onto the roof of the Brewongle Stand at the SCG. While it might have been forgotten within a day or two, it was a mind-blowing moment that sparked curiosity and debate.
Smith's six was a monster, clearing the 24-meter high roof of the Brewongle Stand, an 85-meter carry from the pitch. According to veteran SCG types, it was the first time anyone had ever cleared the roof since its reconstruction in 1980. But was it the biggest six ever seen at the SCG?
The answer is a bit murky. With accurate measuring systems in use for only about five years, the debate relies heavily on fuzzy memories, grainy TV replays, Google Earth, and the tales told around bars and internet forums. For example, Smith's Sixers teammate Ben Dwarshuis hit a similar six that landed onto the roof of the O'Reilly Stand in 2024, measured at 108 meters.
But that's not the only contender. NSW and Australian legend Geoff Lawson points to the 'Junior' Mark Waugh's six in 1990, which landed on the roof of the Members' Stand, estimated to have traveled 110-115 meters. Waugh's shot was an incredible stroke, coming down and striking the ball beautifully.
The history of sixes landing on the SCG roofs is a rich one. In 1964, 19-year-old Pakistani Farooq Hameed belted a six that landed on the roof of the Ladies Stand, a feat that was considered one of the biggest hits ever made at the ground.
Other notable sixes include Alan Davidson's massive shot onto the roof of the old Brewongle in 1954, and video evidence of Saeed Anwar and Joel Garner hitting similar shots in the 1990s and 1980s, respectively.
But some of the biggest hits that are still talked about in SCG folklore were massive straight blows, like Garner landing a six into the top deck of the old MA Noble Stand while playing for South Australia. These shots are a testament to the power and skill of cricket players.
So, while Smith's six was a remarkable feat, it might not be the biggest six ever seen at the SCG. The debate continues, with many strong but unverifiable claims put forward. But one thing is clear: cricket is a game of incredible moments, and the sixes that land on the SCG roofs are certainly among the most memorable.
