Pat Cummins has etched his name into the storied annals of cricket history, becoming the seventh player to claim a hat-trick in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The milestone was achieved during the fourth Super Eight fixture against Bangladesh at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua, on Friday, June 21, according to Indian Standard Time (IST). Cummins’ feat saw him dismiss Mahmudullah, Mahedi Hasan, and Towhid Hridoy in consecutive deliveries, setting the stage for a memorable moment in the tournament.
The realization of Cummins’ hat-trick took some time to dawn upon both the players and the spectators, as the sequence of wickets was spread across two overs. It wasn’t until the next over that the full significance of his achievement became apparent.
### Watch: Pat Cummins Dismisses Towhid Hridoy to Complete His T20 World Cup Hat-Trick
Cummins initiated his spree with a skillfully bowled delivery to Mahmudullah. The ball, pitched short of a good length and outside off stump, enticed Mahmudullah into an ill-fated pull shot. The seasoned Bangladeshi batsman failed to time his shot correctly, resulting in an inside edge that sent the ball crashing onto his stumps. With Mahmudullah dismissed, Mahedi Hasan strode to the crease, hoping to salvage Bangladesh’s innings.
However, Mahedi’s tenure at the crease was short-lived. Cummins, maintaining meticulous line and length, bowled another tantalizing delivery. Mahedi attempted to execute an upper-cut over the third man but only managed to find Adam Zampa, who made no mistake in completing the catch, thus ending the 18th over on a high note for Australia.
At this juncture, it was crucial for Cummins to maintain his momentum, and the Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh made a tactical decision, bringing Cummins back to bowl the final over. Taskin Ahmed and Towhid Hridoy held their ground during Josh Hazlewood’s penultimate over, but the anticipation in the Australian camp was palpable.
Marsh’s decision to hand Cummins the ball paid dividends as he charged in with unrelenting pace. The first ball of the final over was a slower one, delivered with pinpoint accuracy outside off stump. Hridoy, eyeing a boundary, attempted to scoop the ball over fine-leg, who was stationed inside the circle.
. His mistimed shot, however, found Josh Hazlewood positioned perfectly at fine leg, securing the catch and completing Cummins’ hat-trick.
### Jubilation in the Australian Camp
The fall of Hridoy’s wicket sent ripples of jubilation across the Australian camp. Cummins’ achievement was significant not only because it was a personal milestone but also because it marked him as only the second Australian to claim a T20 World Cup hat-trick. The first Australian to accomplish this was none other than the legendary fast bowler Brett Lee, who had also taken his hat-trick against Bangladesh during the inaugural edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Cape Town.
### Historical Context and Reaction
Brett Lee’s hat-trick against Bangladesh in 2007 had set a standard for Australian fast bowlers in T20 World Cup history. Hence, Cummins joining this exclusive club not only echoes a proud tradition but also showcases the continuing legacy of Australian pace dominance on the world stage. The cricketing fraternity responded with admiration and excitement, as analysts and former players lauded Cummins for his meticulous execution and strategic acumen.
Cummins himself acknowledged the special nature of his achievement during a post-match interview, attributing it to team effort. He praised his fellow bowlers and fielders for their contributions, especially recognizing Hazlewood’s critical role in securing the final wicket.
### Other Noteworthy Performances
While Cummins’ hat-trick understandably seized the headlines, there were other noteworthy performances in the match. Mitchell Marsh’s captaincy decisions were sharp and timely, demonstrating tactical brilliance. The fielding unit, led by the ever-reliable Adam Zampa, provided staunch support, ensuring that the pressure Cummins and other bowlers exerted translated into tangible results.
### Looking Ahead
As the T20 World Cup progresses, the Australian team will undoubtedly draw inspiration from Cummins’ milestone. This achievement not only boosts the morale within the camp but also serves as a potent reminder of Australia’s rich cricketing heritage. Moving forward, the team will aim to carry this momentum into their subsequent fixtures, with the ultimate goal of securing the T20 World Cup title.
Pat Cummins’ hat-trick has undeniably added a thrilling chapter to this year’s tournament. With each passing game, the stakes are only set to rise, promising more exhilarating cricketing action for fans worldwide.
