Think you know the first spinner to dominate IPL with a five-for and a hat-trick? Think again!
When you think of the legendary spinners in the IPL, Anil Kumble, Shane Warne, and Harbhajan Singh unquestionably come to mind first. But wait! Did you know that none of them was the first spinner to take a five-wicket haul with a hat-trick in the league?
This rare and remarkable feat belongs to a brilliant leg-spinner who left an indelible mark on a thrilling night in 2008.
It was a thrilling must-win match for the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), and Amit Mishra produced a performance that not only left the Deccan Chargers gasping for breath but also turned the tide of the game.
He took 5 wickets for 17 runs, dismissing formidable hitters, including Shahid Afridi, Herschelle Gibbs, and Ravi Teja. To top it off, he achieved a magnificent hat-trick in the final over to secure the victory!
Imagine the nail-biting excitement: Deccan required 15 runs from the final over. Teja is dismissed with the first ball! Pragyan Ojha is next—he's been caught! And then, RP Singh—stumped! Mishra's name will be etched in IPL history after taking three wickets in succession, sealing the deal in a thrilling sequence!
Mishra's outstanding effort that night played a crucial role in Delhi's 12 runs victory. Although luminaries such as Kumble and Harbhajan eventually came to prominence, this unassuming leggie set the standard for IPL spinners. And here's a fun fact: With 174 scalps, Mishra remains one of the best wicket-takers in tournament history!
Did you know this intriguing piece of trivia? The next time someone discusses famous IPL bowling moments; you'll have a fantastic story to share.
