T20 cricket is a game of electrifying moments, where every ball counts. While fans love watching massive sixes and high-scoring chases, bowlers often deliver match-winning performances that turn the game on its head. One of the most thrilling moments in cricket history is when a bowler takes a hat-trick in T20 cricket, a rare but game-changing achievement.
Taking three wickets in three consecutive balls requires precision, skill, and a bit of luck. Over the years, some legendary bowlers have created unforgettable memories with their spectacular bowling performances in T20 matches. In this article, we’ll explore the most famous hat-tricks in T20 cricket history, from the IPL to international matches.
Brett Lee vs Bangladesh (2007 ICC T20 World Cup)
Australian speedster Brett Lee was the first-ever bowler to register a hat-trick in T20 international cricket. During the 2007 T20 World Cup, he stunned Bangladesh by dismissing Shakib Al Hasan, Mashrafe Mortaza, and Alok Kapali in consecutive deliveries. His feat set a benchmark for fast bowlers worldwide and remains one of the best bowling spells in T20 cricket.
Amit Mishra vs Pune Warriors (IPL 2013)
One of the most consistent spinners in IPL history, Amit Mishra took an incredible hat-trick against Pune Warriors while playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad. He dismissed Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rahul Sharma, and Ashok Dinda, proving why he holds the record for the most hat-tricks in IPL cricket.
Andrew Tye vs Rising Pune Supergiants (IPL 2017)
Andrew Tye’s debut IPL match for Gujarat Lions turned into a dream performance. He not only registered a hat-trick but also ended with match-winning bowling figures of 5/17. His victims were Ankit Sharma, Manoj Tiwary, and Shardul Thakur, making this one of the best IPL hat-tricks of all time.
Rashid Khan vs Kolkata Knight Riders (IPL 2018)
Afghanistan’s cricket superstar Rashid Khan is known for his mystery spin, and in the IPL 2018 playoffs, he delivered one of the most thrilling hat-tricks in IPL history. Dismissing Chris Lynn, Andre Russell, and Shivam Mavi in three successive balls, Rashid ensured Sunrisers Hyderabad reached the IPL final.
Lasith Malinga vs New Zealand (2019 T20I)
Lasith Malinga, the king of Yorkers, pulled off one of the most astonishing bowling spells in T20 cricket. In a historic match against New Zealand in 2019, Malinga took four wickets in four balls, dismissing Colin Munro, Hamish Rutherford, Colin de Grandhomme, and Ross Taylor. This remains the fastest hat-trick in T20 cricket history.
Harshal Patel vs Mumbai Indians (IPL 2021)
Harshal Patel, the highest wicket-taker of IPL 2021, delivered a stunning hat-trick against Mumbai Indians. He dismissed Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, and Rahul Chahar, sealing a crucial win for Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Kagiso Rabada vs Gujarat Lions (IPL 2020)
South African pacer Kagiso Rabada delivered an explosive hat-trick against Gujarat Lions while playing for Delhi Capitals. His victims included Sam Billings, Dwayne Bravo, and Ravindra Jadeja, marking it as one of the most famous IPL hat-tricks.
Shreyas Gopal vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (IPL 2019)
In an unforgettable moment, Shreyas Gopal dismissed Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Marcus Stoinis in IPL 2019. A spinner taking out T20’s most dangerous batsmen in consecutive balls was a rare sight, making it one of the best IPL bowling performances.
Sam Curran vs Kolkata Knight Riders (IPL 2019)
Young Sam Curran surprised everyone when he grabbed a hat-trick for Kings XI Punjab against KKR. His victims—Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, and Sunil Narine—were some of the hardest-hitting batsmen in T20 cricket, proving his mettle as a future star.
Sunil Narine vs Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL 2014)
Sunil Narine, one of the greatest T20 bowlers, achieved a hat-trick in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Playing for Guyana Amazon Warriors, he dismantled the opposition with his deceptive spin, further solidifying his reputation as a mystery bowler in T20 cricket.
Conclusion
Taking a hat-trick in T20 cricket is an extraordinary feat that often decides the outcome of a match. From Brett Lee’s historic first hat-trick to Malinga’s magical four-in-four, these performances have thrilled fans worldwide. As T20 cricket continues to evolve, we can expect even more incredible bowling performances and record-breaking hat-tricks in the future.
FAQs
Q1. What is the fastest hat-trick in T20 cricket?
Ans. Lasith Malinga holds the record for the fastest hat-trick in T20 cricket, achieving four wickets in four balls against New Zealand in 2019.
Q2. Who has taken the most hat-tricks in IPL history?
Ans. Amit Mishra has taken the most hat-tricks in IPL, with three hat-tricks to his name.
Q3. Has any bowler taken two hat-tricks in one T20 tournament?
Ans. Yes, Yuvraj Singh took two hat-tricks in IPL 2009 while playing for Kings XI Punjab.
Q4. Which IPL team has the most hat-tricks?
Ans. Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals have multiple hat-tricks registered in IPL history.
Q5. Where can I watch the best hat-tricks in T20 cricket?
Ans. You can watch the best T20 hat-tricks on platforms like YouTube, Hotstar, and official IPL highlights pages.