OTD | 1879 Fred Spofforth takes the first hat-trick in Test cricket, against England in Melbourne 

Taking a hat-trick in cricket is considered a huge feat and the first ever man to achieve the feat was nicknamed ‘The Demon’. Fred Spofforth achieved this feat during the MCG Test match in 1879 against England in what was the precursor to the Ashes. In those early days when cricket wasn’t yet what it is today, Spofforth’ feat became a huge deal. 

Fred Spofforth made his debut in 1877 against England and played 18 Test matches and picked 94 wickets with a best of 7/44. The pacer picked 7 fifers and four ten wickets in a game. By the time he ended his career at the age of 43 he had picked 853 first class wickets including 11/90 while playing for Wembley Park against Australia at the age of 43. 

First ever Test hattrick registered 

During the 1879 Test versus England, Fred Spofforth picked 6/48 from his 25 overs which included the first ever hat-trick in Test history. His wickets included that of Vernon Royle for 3 followed by Francis McKinnon for a duck and Tom Emmett for a duck. This left England at 26/6 before being bowled out for 113 runs. 

Australia replied with 256 runs with an overall lead of 143 runs with Alec Banermann top scoring with 73. Tom Emmett was the best bowler for England with 7/68 from 59 overs. Spofforth was the second highest scorer for the hosts with 39 runs to show his amazing talents with the bat as well. 

In their 2nd innings, England were all out for 160 as Spofforth picked 7/60 to take his match haul to 13/108 runs. Skipper Lord Harris top scored with 36 runs while Tom Emmett scored 24 not out and number 11 batter Sanford Schlutz scored 20. Needing 18 to win the game, Australia raced to the target in just 2.3 overs with all ten wickets intact. Charles Bannermann was not out on 15 with Billy Murdoch not out on 4 as thew hosts won the game with ease. 

Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.

Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.

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