- By Vishal Pushkar
- Sun, 01 Oct 2023 08:19 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a rain-affected warm-up match for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, Mitchell Starc delivered a sensational hat-trick, showcasing Australia's bowling prowess against the Netherlands. The match, held in Thiruvananthapuram, was reduced to 23 overs per side due to persistent afternoon rain, but Starc's remarkable performance made it memorable.
Chasing a target of 167, the Netherlands were hoping for a strong start, but Starc had other plans. In just his fifth ball of the innings, he trapped Max O’Dowd LBW for a duck and then bowled Wesley Barresi, setting the stage for his hat-trick. Starc completed the hat-trick at the beginning of his second over, demolishing Bas de Leede's stumps.
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Colin Ackermann's unbeaten 31 provided some resistance for the Netherlands, but more rain arrived in the 15th over, with the Netherlands at 84 for six, resulting in an inconclusive match.
Australia, batting first, lost opener Josh Inglis in only the second over. However, Steve Smith and Alex Carey put on a 57-run partnership before Carey was bowled by Roelof van der Merwe for 28. Smith, a member of Australia's 2015 World Cup-winning squad, top-scored with a fluent 55, supported by all-rounder Cameron Green (34) and Starc (24).
Scores in brief
Australia 166/7 v Netherlands 84/6 at Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram – No Result
Australia 166/7 in 23 overs (Steve Smith 55, Cameron Green 34; Roelof van der Merwe 2/12, Bas de Leede 2/25) v Netherlands 84/6 (Colin Ackermann 31 not out, Scott Edwards 14; Mitchell Starc 3/18, Sean Abbott 1/10)