Two cases of rain-interrupted hat-tricks in cricket
Imagine a bowler being on the brink of achieving a hat-trick, the crowd on the edge of their seats, and then suddenly, rain comes pouring down. Here are a couple of memorable examples of hat-tricks that had to endure the unpredictability of weather.
1. Irfan Pathan's Rain-Interrupted Hat-Trick (2006)
Let's talk about Irfan Pathan’s hat-trick against Pakistan that faced the wrath of rain. In the third Test of the 2006 series between India and Pakistan, Pathan was on a hat-trick after dismissing Salman Butt and Younis Khan in consecutive balls. The atmosphere was electric as the crowd anticipated history. However, just as the third ball of the over was about to be bowled, rain interrupted play. It was a heart-wrenching moment for Pathan and cricket fans alike. Unfortunately, the match ended in a draw, denying him the chance to complete the hat-trick.
2. Lasith Malinga's Rain-Delayed Hat-Trick (2007)
Sri Lankan speedster Lasith Malinga is renowned for his deadly yorkers and unorthodox action. In the 2007 World Cup, he became the first bowler to take four wickets in four consecutive balls against South Africa. However, the hat-trick moment was disrupted by a rain delay between the second and third wickets. The interruption didn't deter Malinga's determination, and when play resumed, he sent Shaun Pollock's stumps cartwheeling to complete the hat-trick. It was a remarkable display of skill and resilience in the face of adversity.
These rain-interrupted hat-tricks highlight the unpredictable nature of cricket, where even the weather can't always dictate the outcome. They also showcase the mental fortitude of bowlers who must regroup and refocus after a delay, making their achievements all the more impressive.
So, the next time you're watching a cricket match and rain threatens to dampen the excitement, remember these instances when bowlers overcame interruptions to etch their names in the annals of cricketing history.