Sam Curran Achieves Rare T20I Hat-Trick Milestone
Sam Curran has etched his name in cricket history by achieving a remarkable hat-trick in T20 Internationals. This milestone places him alongside Chris Jordan as the only England men’s players to accomplish this feat. Curran’s hat-trick came during a rain-affected match against Sri Lanka, where England emerged victorious by 11 runs in Pallekele.
Match Overview
The opening match of the T20I series was marred by rain, leading to a reduction in overs. England’s victory came under the Duckworth-Lewis method, with the game limited to 17 overs per side. After Sri Lanka batted first, they were limited to 133 runs, thanks to a stunning performance by England’s bowlers.
Key Moments
- Hat-Trick Achievement: Curran’s hat-trick occurred in the 16th over, where he took three wickets in quick succession, substantially crippling the Sri Lankan innings.
- Sri Lanka’s Collapse: After a steady start at 76 runs for 1 wicket, Sri Lanka suffered a dramatic collapse, losing their last four wickets for just four runs.
- England’s Chase: Phil Salt led the run chase with 46 runs off 35 balls, allowing England to reach their target comfortably.
- Performance Highlights: Adil Rashid’s bowling was pivotal, as he took 3 wickets for just 19 runs, contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s downfall.
Individual Performances
Curran’s remarkable bowling performance not only sealed the win for England but also marked the second time he has taken a T20 hat-trick, having previously done so in the Indian Premier League. The Sri Lankan tail was swiftly dismissed, showcasing Curran’s skill and precision.
Phil Salt’s batting was crucial in the chase, enabling England to secure an important victory despite the challenging conditions. Jos Buttler and Tom Banton also contributed significantly, with scores of 17 and 29, respectively.
Looking Ahead
The second T20 International of the three-match series is set to take place on Sunday. Both teams will look to build on the momentum from this tightly contested opening match.
