Table of Contents
The Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) Stadium in Vadodara witnessed a historic moment on March 1, 2025, as Indian leg-spinner Rahul Sharma etched his name in the record books by claiming the first-ever hat-trick in the International Masters League (IML). The 46-year-old spinner turned back the clock with a stellar performance against South Africa Masters, leading India Masters to an emphatic eight-wicket victory. This remarkable feat not only showcased the enduring brilliance of veteran cricketers but also reignited memories of India’s golden era of spin bowling.
Rahul Sharma’s hat-trick that changed the game
Rahul’s magical spell came during the fifth over of South Africa Masters’ innings. With a steady start at 35/0 in four overs, South Africa looked poised for a competitive total. However, Rahul’s introduction into the attack turned the tide dramatically.
- First Wicket: On his very first delivery, he clean-bowled Hashim Amla, who attempted an aggressive slog but missed completely.
- Second Wicket: The next ball saw South Africa’s skipper Jacques Kallis trapped leg-before for a golden duck, leaving the opposition stunned.
- Third Wicket: Completing his hat-trick, Rahul dismissed Jacques Rudolph with another precise delivery that struck him plumb in front of the stumps.
This devastating over reduced South Africa to 35/3 and left them reeling. Rahul finished his spell with figures of 3/18 in four overs, cementing his place as the wrecker-in-chief for India Masters.
Here’s the video:
𝐑𝐚𝐡𝐮𝐥, 𝐧𝐚𝐚𝐦 𝐭𝐨𝐡 𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐚 𝐡𝐨𝐠𝐚! 😎🎬
3️⃣rd time's a charm indeed! Watch Rahul Sharma pull off the #IMLT20's first hattrick in style 🤙📈#TheBaapsOfCricket #IMLonJioHotstar #IMLonCineplex pic.twitter.com/VGXxDlptzi
— INTERNATIONAL MASTERS LEAGUE (@imlt20official) March 1, 2025
Also WATCH: 6,4,4 – Sachin Tendulkar rolls back time against England in the International Master’s League 2025
A bowling masterclass by India Masters
Rahul’s heroics were complemented by an all-round bowling effort from India Masters. Pawan Negi chipped in with two crucial wickets, including that of opener Henry Davids, who top-scored for South Africa with 38 runs off 27 balls. Yuvraj Singh also rolled back the years with a sensational three-wicket haul, dismissing Vernon Philander, Garnett Kruger, and Dane Vilas while conceding just 12 runs in three overs. Stuart Binny wrapped up the tail with two quick wickets, ensuring South Africa were bowled out for a paltry 85 in just 13.5 overs.
India Master’s comfortable chase despite early hiccups
Chasing a modest target of 86, India Masters faced an early setback when skipper Sachin Tendulkar was dismissed for just six runs. Irfan Pathan followed soon after, leaving India at 29/2 at the end of the powerplay. However, Ambati Rayudu and Pawan Negi steadied the ship with an unbroken partnership that guided India to victory in just 11 overs. Rayudu played a composed knock of 41* off 34 balls, laced with seven boundaries. Whereas Negi provided the finishing touches with a quickfire 21* off 12 balls, including a six that sealed the win. India Masters completed their chase with eight wickets and 54 balls to spare, marking their third consecutive victory in the tournament.
Rahul’s hat-trick is not just a cricketing milestone but also a testament to his resilience. Fifteen years ago, he battled facial paralysis that threatened to end his career prematurely. Yet, he overcame adversity to represent India at the highest level and now continues to shine on the global stage through veteran leagues like the IML.
