OTD | Keshav Maharaj became only the second South African to take a hat-trick in Test cricket

On this day, June 21, 2021, Keshav Maharaj became only the second South African cricketer to claim a hat-trick in Test cricket. The landmark came during the second Test against the West Indies at Gros Islet, St Lucia, and placed the left-arm spinner alongside Geoff Griffin, whose hat-trick against England at Lord’s in 1960 had stood alone in South African cricket history for more than six decades. Maharaj’s achievement was one of the defining moments of a match that South Africa went on to win comfortably.

The hat-trick arrived during the West Indies’ second innings as the home side attempted to chase a daunting target of 324. Maharaj had already been a significant factor in the match, extracting turn and bounce from a surface that increasingly favoured spin. With the West Indies struggling at 81 for 6, he struck three times in three deliveries to complete a rare feat. His first victim was Kieran Powell, who was trapped leg before wicket while attempting to defend. The dismissal brought Jason Holder to the crease under considerable pressure.

Holder was then dismissed first ball, also leg before wicket, after failing to account for a delivery that turned sharply into him. With the hat-trick ball approaching, South Africa gathered around Maharaj knowing history was within reach. Joshua Da Silva became the third victim when he edged a defensive shot and was caught at slip. The wicket completed the hat-trick and triggered celebrations among the South African players. It was the first Test hat-trick by a South African in 61 years and only the 44th recorded in the history of men’s Test cricket at that time.

Maharaj finished the innings with figures of 5 for 36, underlining his influence on the outcome of the contest. The West Indies were eventually bowled out for 165, giving South Africa a commanding 158-run victory and allowing them to level the two-match series 1-1. While the hat-trick naturally drew most of the attention, it formed part of a broader all-round performance from Maharaj, who consistently troubled the West Indies batters throughout the innings. His accuracy, control and ability to exploit the conditions made him the decisive bowler in the match.

The achievement was particularly significant because South Africa has produced many outstanding bowlers across different eras, yet Test hat-tricks have remained remarkably rare for the country. Griffin’s hat-trick in 1960 had come against England and remained the only instance for generations despite the presence of world-class fast bowlers and spinners in South African cricket. Maharaj’s success therefore represented both a personal milestone and an important addition to the nation’s Test history.

By 2021, Maharaj had established himself as South Africa’s leading spin bowler across formats. His performances overseas had become increasingly important as the team sought balance in varied conditions. The hat-trick in St Lucia highlighted the value he brought to the attack and reinforced his standing as one of the most accomplished spinners South Africa has produced. More than four years later, it remains one of the most memorable individual achievements by a South African bowler in Test cricket, remembered for its rarity, historical significance and its decisive role in securing an important away victory.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

For more exclusive updates, visit BJSports to access Exclusive News that is only for you, incisive analysis, and updates, and to keep up with all of the latest information on your favorite remarkable cricket playes and teams. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!