ENG vs NZ : Gus Atkinson Creates History with Test Hat-trick Against New Zealand
Atkinson's hat-trick was the first in Test cricket in over three years and the first by an England player in seven years

Asela MadhusankaEditor
Posted - 2024-12-07T10:10:34+06:00
Updated - 2024-12-07T10:10:34+06:00
Gus Atkinson etched his name in cricketing history on the second morning of the second Test between England and New Zealand in Wellington. The 26-year-old became the 15th English cricketer to take a Test hat-trick, producing a deadly spell of 4/31 that dismantled the hosts, who were bowled out for just 125 runs in their first innings.
Atkinson's hat-trick was the first in Test cricket in over three years and the first by an England player in seven years, following Moeen Ali's feat in 2017 against South Africa. His incredible effort came in the morning session, where he removed Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, and Tim Southee in three consecutive deliveries, setting the tone for England's dominant performance.
Atkinson's hat-trick began with Nathan Smith’s dismissal, as Smith misjudged a delivery that bounced more than expected, deflecting off his gloves and into the stumps. Matt Henry was next, falling victim to a vicious bouncer that he fended to Ben Duckett at gully. Tim Southee, who came in as the final batter, was trapped LBW by a deceptive full delivery, completing Atkinson’s historic hat-trick.
This was the 47th hat-trick in Test cricket and the 15th for England, placing Atkinson in an elite group of players. His performance, along with contributions from England’s other bowlers, left New Zealand reeling and unable to put up a significant first-innings total.
England capitalized on their dominant bowling display, reaching 215/3 by tea on Day 2, extending their lead to a massive 370 runs. Having already won the first Test in Christchurch by eight wickets, England are now in a commanding position to secure their first Test series win in New Zealand since 2008.