An explosive knock from Tim Robinson has seen the Wellington Firebirds claim a dominant win over the Otago Volts at the Basin Reserve.
Before today, Robinson had a T20 career tally of 181 runs from 14 games since making his debut in November 2021 but following his Super Smash performance this afternoon, he almost doubled it.
The 21-year-old ascended to a human highlight reel in the capital, blasting 139 runs off just 64 balls.
After a horror start saw fellow opener Nick Greenwood depart for a golden duck in the first over, Robinson's effort saw him bat throughout the Firebirds innings with his teammates supporting his charge for the Super Smash record of 141, currently held by Michael Bracewell which he set two years ago.
He had some help from the Volts though as catches went to ground but in the final over, Robinson seemed to be aware of it too, blasting the first ball of the final over for four before blasting Matt Bacon for four consecutive sixes, leaving him just two runs shy of Bracewell's mark.
But it wasn't meant to be as he was instead dismissed on the final ball, heading off the field to a standing ovation from the crowd.
It was still an incredible innings though, studded with 10 fours and 10 sixes which was was supported by captain Nick Kelly (48) with whom he shared a 125-run second wicket stand, and an aggressive Nathan Smith who put on 71 with him for the fifth wicket, the final stand of the innings.
After his innings, Robinson said he felt he had a point to prove.
"A little bit, I had a big winter and everyone talks about first-year jitters,'' Robinson said. "I think totally understand that now, and am trying to make the most of everything that comes my way.''
In reference to his 10 sixes, he said he was motivated to entertain the crowd. "I felt great. I got a bit lucky at the start there, so tried to cash in on a few of those mistakes.''
The Firebirds reached 234/5 and that proved enough for a 74-run victory over the Otago Volts who were bowled out in reply for 160 in the 17th over.
Ian McPeake and Peter Younghusband led the way in Wellington's bowling, taking three wickets each.
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