They say circumstances do not remain the same forever—and Lungi Ngidi is living proof of that belief. The South African fast bowler etched his name into the record books by taking a historic hat-trick in the SA20, a moment that has inspired fans across the cricketing world.

From Poverty to International Stardom

Ngidi’s journey to the top was anything but easy. He grew up in severe financial hardship. His mother earned a living by washing utensils in other people’s houses, while his father worked in school maintenance. As a child, Ngidi dreamed of becoming a batsman—but the family could not afford to buy a bat.

Forced by circumstances, he switched to fast bowling. That difficult decision would go on to define his career. Today, the same boy who once lacked basic cricket equipment is celebrated globally as one of South Africa’s premier fast bowlers.

First Hat-Trick in SA20 History

Ngidi created history on January 7 during the SA20 match between Pretoria Capitals and Durban Super Giants.

Bowling the 18th over of Durban’s innings, Ngidi struck gold on the second, third and fourth deliveries:

• He first dismissed David Miller

• Then removed Sunil Narine

• And finally sent back Gerald Coetzee

With this spell, Ngidi became the first bowler in SA20 history to take a hat-trick.

Match-Winning Impact

Batting first, Pretoria Capitals posted a formidable 201 for 4, powered by a brilliant century from Shai Hope.

In response, Durban Super Giants were bowled out for 186 in 19.4 overs while chasing 202. Ngidi’s hat-trick played a decisive role in sealing the victory for Pretoria Capitals.

Ngidi Set for IPL 2026

Ngidi’s success isn’t limited to South Africa. He will also feature in the Indian Premier League. In the IPL 2026 auction, Delhi Capitals signed him at his base price of ₹2 crore.

From a childhood marked by poverty to rewriting T20 league history, Lungi Ngidi’s journey stands as one of modern cricket’s most powerful stories of grit, sacrifice, and determination.