Historic Hat-Tricks by Services Bowlers in Assam's Ranji Trophy Match

In a historic moment, the Tinsukia District Sports Association Ground, which hosted its first Ranji Trophy match in 24 years, saw Services bowlers make headlines on Day 1 by achieving two hat-tricks in the same innings, a rare feat in Indian domestic cricket.

Assam, batting first after winning the toss, faced immediate challenges against the exceptional Services’ bowling attack. Left-arm spinner Arjun Sharma made an early mark, capturing the wickets of captain Riyan Parag, wicket-keeper Sumit Ghadigaonkar, and Sibsankar Roy in consecutive deliveries. Sharma’s remarkable achievement not only became the first hat-trick of the Ranji Trophy season but also left Assam struggling at 45 for five.

Following the lunch break, the situation for Assam worsened as left-arm pacer Mohit Jangra dismissed the final remaining batsmen. Pradyun Saikia was the top scorer for Assam, with a brisk 52 off 42 balls, but Jangra claimed him on the last ball of the 15th over and went on to clean up Mukhtar Hussain and Bhargab Lakhar. This achievement marked Jangra’s first First-Class hat-trick, adding another layer of historic significance to the day.

This match became the first instance in Ranji Trophy history with two bowlers earning hat-tricks in a single innings. The only comparable instance was nearly six decades ago in 1963, involving Joginder Singh Rao, who remains unique for achieving multiple hat-tricks in a single First-Class innings, representing Services against Northern Punjab.

Assam's batting lineup succumbed entirely, finishing all out for just 103 runs in 17.3 overs. Services’ commanding bowling performance emphasized the challenges faced by Assam on a demanding pitch, where quick dismissals placed significant pressure on the home side.

After the collapse of Assam, Services skipper Riyan Parag stepped up as a bowler, making an immediate impact by securing two wickets in his first over, further solidifying his team’s dominant position. This early success showcased a historic day in Tinsukia.

The extraordinary efforts by Arjun Sharma and Mohit Jangra mark a significant moment in Indian domestic cricket. Achieving two hat-tricks in the same innings stands as an exceptional accomplishment, matched only once in the past 60 years, solidifying this day as one of the most memorable in Ranji Trophy bowling history.