Taking a hat-trick in Test cricket is one of the most challenging feats, showcasing a bowler’s ability to dismiss the top batter quickly. Pakistan, known for its history of producing exceptional bowlers, has witnessed several iconic moments of brilliance in Test cricket. Here are five Pakistani players who have achieved this rare milestone, Noman Ali be the latest to join this elite list.
5 Pakistani bowlers to take a hat-trick in the longest format
Wasim Akram – the double delight of Sultan Swing
Akram, widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of cricket, is the only Pakistani cricketer to take two hat-tricks in Test cricket. His first hat-trick came in 1999 against Sri Lanka at the P Saravanamuttu Stadium in Lahore. Akram was fired Romesh Kaluwitharana, Niroshan Bandaratillekeand Pramodya Wickramasinghe In back-to-back deliveries, demonstrating his mastery of the reverse swing.
A few days later, Akram repeated the feat against the islanders in Dhaka, dismissing Avishka Gunawardene, Chaminda Vaas and Mahela Jayawardene with its impeccable line, length and movement. These performances showed not only his ability to take advantage of any situation, but also his knack for delivering under pressure. Akram’s double hat-tricks remain a testament to his unparalleled skill as a fast bowler.
Abdul Razzaq: Brilliant against the Lankans
Razzaq, best known for his all-round ability, etched his name in cricket history with a hat-trick against Sri Lanka in 2000 at the National Stadium, Karachi. Razzaq rejected KaluwithAran, Rangana Herath and Ravindra Pushpakumara In three consecutive deliveries. His ability to move the ball both ways caught the batter off guard, turning the game in Pakistan’s favour.
While Razzaq is primarily celebrated for his powerful batting, this bowling feat highlighted his versatility and ability to rise to the occasion when his team needed him most. It remains one of the highlights of his cricket career.
Mohammad Sami: Speed and swing in full flow
Another Pakistani bowler and the same opponent in the form of Sri Lanka. Sami, known for his raw pace and ability to turn the ball over, delivered one of his most memorable performances with a hat-trick against the Islanders in 2002 in Lahore. Sami fired Charitha Buddhika, Nuwan Zoysaand Mutiah muralitharanshowing off his deadly combination of speed and precision.
Although Sami’s career has been marked by inconsistency, this moment highlighted his potential and raw talent as a fast bowler. His hat-trick remains a shining example of his ability to give up even the most experienced shots.
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Naseem Shah: The Teenage Sensation’s Historic Feat
Next on the list of respect is Naseem, who became one of the youngest players in the history of cricket to take a hat-trick in Test cricket in the 2020 match against Bangladesh at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Naseem was fired Najmul Hossain Shanto, Taijul Islamand Mahmudullah In successive deliveries leaving the opposition shell-shocked.
Naseem’s fiery pace and ability to create movement off the pitch made him a force to be reckoned with, and the hat-trick established him as a rising star in Pakistan’s bowling arsenal. It also symbolized the bright future of Pakistan’s heritage.
Noman Ali: First Pakistani spinner to achieve the feat
Noman made history on 24 January 2025, becoming the first Pakistani spinner to take a hat-trick in Test cricket. Playing against West Indies in Multan, Noman showed his craft by dismissing three crucial knocks in quick succession. His hat-trick not only showcased his control and guile but also underlined the growing influence of spin in Pakistan’s cricketing narrative. During the West Indies first innings, Noman dismissed Justin Greaves, Tevin Imlachand Kevin Sinclair To achieve a historic feat.
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