Brett Randell's Historic Feat: Five Wickets in Five Balls in First-Class Cricket
Synopsis
Brett Randell has etched his name in cricket history by taking five wickets in five balls during a Plunket Shield match. This remarkable achievement, part of his career-best figures of 7-25, has left fans and players alike in awe.
Key Takeaways
Brett Randell made history with five wickets in five balls.
He achieved a personal best of 7-25 during the match.
The match took place in Napier against Northern Districts .
Randell's performance helped dismiss the opposing team for just 82 runs .
He recorded the eighth hat-trick in Central Stags history.
Napier, March 8 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking achievement for world first-class cricket, Brett Randell has taken five wickets in just five balls, contributing to an impressive personal best of 7-25 for Central Stags during a Plunket Shield match against Northern Districts at McLean Park.
Randell initiated his remarkable feat by bowling out Henry Cooper on the final delivery of his second over. In the subsequent over, he dismissed former New Zealand Test opener Jeet Raval. His hat-trick followed with Joe Carter, who was caught behind. Randell’s fourth wicket came when Robert O'Donnell edged his outswinger to Curtis Heaphy in the slips.
The fifth wicket added to his tally when Kristian Clarke attempted a shot at a delivery well outside off-stump, resulting in a thin inside edge that bounced back onto his stumps, displacing the leg bail.
Only spinner Bryan Yuile (9-100 in 1966) has a superior first-class haul for the team, but Randell's achievement, with all seven wickets falling in the same session during Day Two of the sixth round match against the Plunket Shield leaders, Northern Districts, is set to be remembered for the unique hat-trick.
Randell's initial five wickets had Northern Districts staggering at 9/5, and at one stage his figures stood at 7/4. He recorded the eighth hat-trick in Stags first-class history, aiding in dismissing Northern Districts for a mere 82 runs. Following this, Stags captain Tom Bruce enforced the follow-on with a commanding lead of 291, after opting to bat first on the sunny morning in Napier.
“I’m quite overwhelmed,” Randell expressed during the tea break. “The emotion was extraordinary; it felt like a pinch-me moment. I focused on remaining level-headed and consistently placing the ball in the same area. After achieving the hat-trick, I continued with the same strategy—just attempting to keep the ball in the right areas.”
“It’s ingrained in us that we shouldn’t chase wickets, so I concentrated on executing our “Plan A” which had been discussed, and it paid off. I had no clue that this was the first instance of five wickets in five balls in first-class cricket worldwide; it’s incredibly exciting. Honestly, I’m at a loss for words right now, but I’ll gladly take it,” he added.
Point of View
It's essential to highlight Brett Randell's extraordinary achievement in the world of cricket. His performance not only showcases individual talent but also elevates the competitive spirit of the sport. Randell's milestone is a reminder of the unpredictable and thrilling nature of cricket.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What record did Brett Randell achieve?
Brett Randell achieved the remarkable record of taking five wickets in five balls during a Plunket Shield match.
What were Brett Randell's final bowling figures?
Brett Randell's final bowling figures were 7 wickets for 25 runs.
Which team did Brett Randell play against?
Brett Randell played against the Northern Districts in the Plunket Shield match.
Where did this historic performance take place?
This historic performance took place at McLean Park in Napier.
How did Randell feel after his achievement?
Randell expressed being overwhelmed and described the moment as a 'pinch-me moment'.
