NEW DELHI: In a historic moment at The Oval on July 31, 2017, all-rounder Moeen Ali became the first English spinner since 1938 to achieve a hat-trick in Test cricket during the third game between England and South Africa.
Moeen had become the first spinner from the country since Tom Goddard to bag a hat-trick in the longest format.
On the final day of the 100th Test match at The Oval with South Africa putting up a strong resistance, Moeen was tasked with breaking their resolve.
He began by dismissing Dean Elgar, the top-scorer for South Africa, who edged a turning delivery to Ben Stokes at slip after playing a determined 228-ball 136.
Moeen then proceeded to remove Kagiso Rabada with a cleverly disguised delivery that caught the edge and was safely caught by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow.
With the Rabada dismissal off the last ball of the over, Ali was ecstatic as he executed his plan to perfection.
Following Ben Stokes’ over, Moeen came back and had the opportunity to complete his hat-trick in the 78th over.
The crowd watched in anticipation as Moeen bowled a sharp off-break that trapped Morne Morkel, the final South African batsman, in front of the wicket.
Despite the initial not out decision from the on-field umpire, England reviewed the call, and replays confirmed the ball was destined to hit the leg stump.
As the on-field umpire reversed his decision, Moeen’s teammates erupted in celebration and The Oval crowd roared in delight.
Moeen’s hat-trick not only secured his place in history but also played a crucial role in England’s commanding 239-run victory, giving them a 2-1 lead in the series.
Moeen had become the first spinner from the country since Tom Goddard to bag a hat-trick in the longest format.
On the final day of the 100th Test match at The Oval with South Africa putting up a strong resistance, Moeen was tasked with breaking their resolve.
He began by dismissing Dean Elgar, the top-scorer for South Africa, who edged a turning delivery to Ben Stokes at slip after playing a determined 228-ball 136.
Moeen then proceeded to remove Kagiso Rabada with a cleverly disguised delivery that caught the edge and was safely caught by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow.
With the Rabada dismissal off the last ball of the over, Ali was ecstatic as he executed his plan to perfection.
Following Ben Stokes’ over, Moeen came back and had the opportunity to complete his hat-trick in the 78th over.
The crowd watched in anticipation as Moeen bowled a sharp off-break that trapped Morne Morkel, the final South African batsman, in front of the wicket.
Despite the initial not out decision from the on-field umpire, England reviewed the call, and replays confirmed the ball was destined to hit the leg stump.
As the on-field umpire reversed his decision, Moeen’s teammates erupted in celebration and The Oval crowd roared in delight.
Moeen’s hat-trick not only secured his place in history but also played a crucial role in England’s commanding 239-run victory, giving them a 2-1 lead in the series.
