Scorchers' Keaton Critchell's Magic Hat-Trick Rattles Pakistan In Top End T20 Semis

Keaton Critchell picks hat-trick vs Pakistan Shaheens [Source: @7Cricket/X.com]

The 2nd semi-final of the Top End T20 Series 2025 in Darwin turned into a nightmare for Pakistan Shaheens, as Perth Scorchers Academy seamer Keaton Critchell produced a wonderful fast bowling performance, capped off with a wonderful hat-trick in the 11th over, to leave the visitors stunned.

Chasing 156, the Shaheens looked shaky at 66/5, but things went from bad to worse when Critchell returned for his third over. What followed was pure carnage. 

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Keaton Critchell's Fiery Spell Sends Pakistan Shaheens Crashing Out

On the very first ball of the 11th, Keaton Critchell dismissed Mubasir Khan, who edged behind to the keeper. The next delivery saw Saad Masood nicking one, again brilliantly taken by the wicketkeeper. 

Without giving the batters any breathing space, Critchell struck for the third time in a row as Mehran Mumtaz offered a simple return catch. Within three balls, the scoreboard read 66/8, and the Shaheens’ hopes were all but buried.

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7 Cricket's tweet [Source: @7Cricket/X.com]

The hat-trick ignited ecstatic celebrations from the players of the Perth Scorchers, and Critchell himself also seemed charged as his teammates surrounded him in jubilation.

Pakistan Shaheens, who needed 156 to win, suddenly found themselves chasing an impossible target with only tailenders left at the crease. With the required run rate climbing over 10, the match was effectively sealed then and there.

That being said, the winner of this game will qualify for the final, where they’ll meet the winner of the Chicago Kingsmen vs Adelaide Strikers Academy 1st semi-final. The final is scheduled for August 24 in Darwin.

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