Tim Robinson, the latest inclusion in the New Zealand T20I squad, has a clear and concise philosophy on the game: “I love hitting sixes.” The 21-year-old batsman is set for a potential international debut in the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan starting on April 18th, despite having only 20 domestic T20 matches under his belt.
Robinson’s explosive batting recently caught the eye of selectors, especially with the absence of several key players due to IPL commitments and other factors. His blistering knock of 139 off just 64 balls against Otago in the Super Smash tournament showcased his immense potential. This innings, the second-highest individual score in the tournament, featured a staggering 10 sixes.
From Backyard Dreams to International Reality
While his selection might come as a surprise to some, Robinson has dreamt of launching sixes on the international stage since his childhood. He acknowledges the significant step up in competition that awaits him in the T20I series but draws confidence from his dominant century against Otago.
“I was actually stuttering away trying to hold a conversation, but I was struggling a little bit,” Robinson said about his reaction to the selection news, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo. “I couldn’t believe it and to be honest it hasn’t quite sunk in yet. It’s hard to put those kinds of things into words. Something I’ve dreamed off since I was a kid, trying to hit sixes in the back yard but for it to all come to fruition is pretty amazing and just really excited.”
Love for SixesÂ
Robinson’s passion for big hitting goes beyond just the dream of international cricket. He thrives on the entertainment factor and the sheer joy of connecting the ball cleanly for a maximum.
“I love hitting sixes and trying to entertain people and to be honest it’s addictive when you get one out of the middle and it goes a mile,” Robinson elaborated. “I took a lot of confidence out of that [century] but this is a completely different challenge and I’m excited to get over there and have a real crack.”
Inspiration from a Teammate
Looking towards the upcoming series, Robinson finds inspiration in his Wellington teammate, Michael Bracewell. The 33-year-old batsman serves as a role model for Robinson, and the duo pushes each other to hit the ball even further. Robinson expressed his delight at Bracewell leading the team in Pakistan.
“He’s (Michael Bracewell) been a fantastic role model for me,” Robinson said. “We help each other and see who can hit the ball furthest. He’s a fantastic guy and fills me with comfort that I’m going over with him,” he added.
With his love for sixes, recent domestic form, and the guidance of a senior teammate, Tim Robinson is poised to make a powerful statement on the international stage. New Zealand cricket fans will be eagerly waiting to see if the young batsman can translate his backyard dreams into a reality on the biggest stage.
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