In a sensational performance on December 8, 2024, England’s off-spinner Charlie Dean made history by claiming a remarkable hat-trick in an ODI against South Africa. The achievement has placed her in an exclusive club, making her only the third English player to ever achieve this feat in women’s ODIs. Dean’s match-changing performance helped England level the three-match series with a commanding six-wicket win.
The hat-trick was a dramatic one, coming during a phase when South Africa’s batting collapsed in extraordinary fashion. Dean’s first victim was Marizanne Kapp, dismissed off the final ball of the 17th over.
She followed up with the scalps of Nadine de Klerk and Sinalo Jafta off consecutive deliveries in the 19th over, leading to a stunning collapse as South Africa lost five wickets for just four runs. Dean finished with impressive figures of 4/45, contributing significantly to South Africa being bowled out for a meager total of 135.
What made Dean’s hat-trick even more fascinating was her lack of realization of the achievement until after the match. She admitted to being unaware of the historic moment, only learning about the hat-trick when she was informed by her teammates and the management. “I didn’t even realise I had a hat-trick so it was great to find that out afterwards,” Dean remarked post-match.
Dean’s remarkable performance was the highlight of a dominant bowling display from England. The team had already been helped by Lauren Filer, who set the tone with two early wickets. Following Dean’s heroics, England easily chased down South Africa’s modest target in just 26 overs, with key contributions from Tammy Beaumont (34), Maia Bouchier (33), and Danni Wyatt-Hodge (25*).
With the series now tied at 1-1, the final ODI in Potchefstroom will be a decider for both teams, making it an exciting conclusion to a thrilling series. For Dean, this hat-trick represents both a personal milestone and an indication of her growing consistency and skill in the international arena.