Central Stags fast bowler Brett Randell made cricket history on Sunday with an extraordinary performance during a Plunket Shield match against Northern Districts in Napier.
The 30-year-old right-arm fast bowler achieved the rare feat of taking five wickets in five consecutive balls, a moment that stunned players and fans alike.
Randell’s outstanding spell also included six wickets in just eight deliveries. By the end of his bowling, he had taken a total of seven wickets for 25 runs in 11 overs. His remarkable performance played a key role in dismissing Northern Districts for only 82 runs, as they tried to respond to Central Districts’ strong first-innings total of 373.
The fast bowler later described the achievement as a “pinch-me moment,” saying it felt almost unreal. He explained that his main focus during the spell was simply to bowl with a consistent line and length, which eventually led to the dramatic series of wickets.
Randell’s hat-trick is also a significant milestone in the history of the Central Stags. It is only the eighth hat-trick recorded by the team in the 75-year history of Plunket Shield cricket. Such achievements are rare in first-class cricket and highlight the bowler’s skill and control during the match.
Cricket analysts and fans praised Randell’s remarkable performance, calling it one of the most memorable spells in recent domestic cricket. His effort not only helped his team dominate the match but also secured his place in the record books.
This historic bowling performance will likely be remembered for years as one of the most impressive moments in New Zealand’s domestic cricket competitions.
