The Indian Premier League has witnessed several extraordinary moments over the years, but few match the uniqueness of Pravin Tambe’s remarkable hat-trick in the 2014 season—achieved in just two legal deliveries.

A Hat-Trick Like No Other

Representing Rajasthan Royals against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Sardar Patel Stadium on May 5, 2014, Tambe scripted a rare piece of IPL history.

The sequence unfolded in an unusual manner:

• The first delivery of the over was a wide, but it resulted in the stumping of Manish Pandey. Since it was not a legal ball, it did not count in the over—but the wicket stood.

• On the next (first legal) ball, Tambe dismissed Yusuf Pathan, caught and bowled.

• On the very next delivery, he trapped Ryan ten Doeschate LBW.

Thus, while officially recorded as a hat-trick (three wickets in three consecutive deliveries), it astonishingly came within just two legal balls, making it one of the most unusual feats in IPL history.

Late Bloomer’s Memorable Career

Tambe’s journey itself was inspirational. He made his IPL debut at the age of 41 and went on to play 33 matches between 2013 and 2016, picking up 28 wickets with an economy rate of 7.75.

Why Was He Banned?

Despite his on-field achievements, Tambe’s career faced an abrupt halt when the Board of Control for Cricket in India barred him from participating in the IPL.

The ban was imposed after he took part in overseas franchise leagues without obtaining prior approval from the board, which violated BCCI regulations governing player participation in foreign tournaments.

A Lasting Legacy

While his IPL career was relatively short, Pravin Tambe’s unique hat-trick remains etched in league history—a reminder that cricket can still produce moments of pure unpredictability.