Hat-tricks are among cricket’s most thrilling feats — three wickets in three consecutive deliveries, often turning matches on their heads. While famous hat-tricks get their due praise, many rare and surprising hat-tricks have gone unnoticed by the masses. These rare hat-tricks came from unexpected players, under unusual circumstances, or in obscure matches, making them hidden gems in cricket’s rich history.
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In this article, we count down the Top 10 Rare Hat-Tricks in Cricket that you probably missed but deserve a spot in cricket lore.
10. Peter Siddle (Australia vs England, 2010 Ashes)
Peter Siddle’s Ashes hat-trick in 2010 was Australia’s first since 1999. Despite its significance, it was overshadowed by the high-profile nature of the series and the emergence of other star bowlers.
9. Irfan Pathan (India vs Pakistan, 2006 Asia Cup)
Irfan’s hat-trick in a high-pressure match against Pakistan stunned fans. His triple strike helped India turn the game, but it’s often overlooked due to the match’s overshadowing by other big moments.
8. Saeed Ajmal (Pakistan vs England, 2012)
Saeed Ajmal’s magical wrist spin took a hat-trick in the ODI series against England. The wickets were key in restricting England’s chase but didn’t get the global attention they deserved.
7. Nathan Lyon (Australia vs Sri Lanka, 2019)
Lyon’s rare hat-trick was the first by an Australian spinner in Test cricket since 1997. Despite its rarity, it flew under the radar due to a lack of media spotlight.
6. Joginder Sharma (India vs Pakistan, 2007 T20 World Cup Final)
Joginder’s hat-trick in the most tense moments of the inaugural T20 World Cup final was crucial. It’s celebrated among fans but not as widely known globally.
5. Mohammad Sami (Pakistan vs England, 2003)
Sami’s hat-trick was vital in Pakistan’s victory, showcasing his raw pace. Yet, this hat-trick remains relatively unknown outside hardcore cricket circles.
4. Andy Caddick (England vs West Indies, 2000)
Caddick’s hat-trick in the 2000 Test series was important but didn’t receive massive attention due to the series outcome.
3. Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka vs South Africa, 2007)
While Malinga’s famous 4 wickets in 4 balls are legendary, his first hat-trick in international cricket was in a less hyped match and often overlooked.
2. Ryan Harris (Australia vs England, 2013)
Harris took a hat-trick in the Ashes but was overshadowed by other star performers, making it one of the rare hat-tricks many miss.
1. Dominic Cork (England vs West Indies, 1995)
Cork’s hat-trick is remembered by few, but it was a turning point in the match and showed his ability to perform under pressure — a true rare gem in cricket history.
While some hat-tricks become instantly iconic, many rare hat-tricks quietly change games without grabbing headlines. These Rare Hat-Tricks in Cricket celebrate those overlooked moments of brilliance — a testament to cricket’s unpredictable and thrilling nature.
Keep an eye out in every match; the next rare hat-trick could be just around the corner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)!
What makes a hat-trick “rare”?
A: Rare hat-tricks are those achieved in unusual circumstances, by unexpected players, or in less high-profile matches.
Are rare hat-tricks less important than famous ones?
A: No, they can be equally or more impactful but often don’t get the same media attention.
Can you name a famous rare hat-trick?
A: Peter Siddle’s Ashes hat-trick in 2010 is a notable example that many casual fans might have missed.