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When Moeen Ali Broke 79-Year-Old Record With A Test Hattrick In England Vs South Africa

When Moeen Ali won Test for England with record hat-trick (X.com)When Moeen Ali won Test for England with record hat-trick (X.com)

In 2017, Moeen Ali etched his name into the history books by becoming the first English spinner in 79 years to claim a hat-trick in Test cricket. This remarkable feat was achieved during the third Test match between England and South Africa at The Oval.

On the final day of the match, Moeen was given the ball to break a stubborn South African resistance. 

He struck first by dismissing Dean Elgar, who had been South Africa’s top-scorer with a gritty 136 off 228 balls. Elgar edged a turning delivery to Ben Stokes at slip, setting the stage for what would become a historic spell.

Moeen Ali then removed Kagiso Rabada with a well-disguised delivery that took the edge and was caught by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow. The dismissal was a carbon copy of Elgar’s wicket, and Ali was ecstatic after executing his plans to perfection.

Moeen Ali's first hat-trick in Test cricket!

After Ben Stokes bowled the next over, Moeen Ali continued his spell with a hat-trick opportunity in the 78th over. 

With the crowd on the edge of their seats, Moeen delivered a sharp off-break that trapped Morne Morkel, the last man standing, in front of the stumps. 

The umpire’s verdict of not out was challenged, and the review showed the ball crashing into 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 Ali had become the first English spinner since Tom Goddard in 1938 to claim a hat-trick in Test cricket. 

Moreover, Moeen’s hat-trick sealed England’s victory by 239 runs and handed them a 2-1 series lead. His accomplishment not only secured a memorable win but also underlined his importance as a key player for England. Ali redefined the importance of spinners red ball cricket all over again.