To take five wickets in an innings is something that most fast bowlers cherish – especially on the traditionally batting friendly strip of Senwes Park.
This notion was thrown out of the window when North West Dragons paceman, Eldred Hawken, claimed career best figures of 9/14 in 15 overs against Easterns in the CSA 3-day provincial match. Subsequently, the 30-year old Hawken now holds the all-time North West record for best bowling figures in an innings in all formats. Hawken is also fourth on the all-time list in SA Cricket. Behind Bert Vogler, Stephen Jefferies and Mario Olivier (who all had 10 wickets in an innings)
On an incredible day at Senwes Park the former Titans fast bowler, hit his straps picked up wickets for fun. A delighted and speechless Hawken described the day as “strange” and “weird.”
It all started with 4 maiden overs which built his confidence. He then got the ball rolling in his fifth over taking four wickets in 6 balls to start the rot for Easterns.
“I was fortunate to start with four maiden overs to just find my rhythm. I was almost taken out of the attack, but we went for one more over and that is where everything changed. I just kept bowling and getting wickets. My best ball was to Ryan Cartwright as he couldn’t leave it. It was also good to dismiss Andrea Agathangelou, because he is a good player,” said Hawken.
According to Hawken there was a bit of extra bounce and pace in the wicket, which brought the edges about.
“I am a little bit speechless about today. A really strange, strange day of cricket. Not sure if it will happen to me again,” said Hawken.
Hawken’s journey to the North West Dragons is also unconventional in the sense that he is currently living in Johannesburg and commuting to Potchefstroom. North West Dragons head coach, Monty Jacobs, called Hawken up to play for North West this season, after Hawken decided to pursue a new opportunity, after previously representing Northerns and the Titans.
“In the off season I decided to move to Joburg, because I wasn’t 100% sure if I lost my Titans contract. I decided to play for Gauteng or North West in order to get into contention for the Lions Franchise.
I was more than happy to come and play for Monty. The North West change room has been amazing and the guys have motivated and welcomed me,” said Hawken.
At the moment Hawken is focusing on performing every game and enjoying his cricket in order to open new doors, after spending the past 7 years in the franchise cricket system.
“I never thought I could take 9 in an innings. I thought maybe 7? One of my teammates joked that I could get 10 wickets when I got to six. I made a bet with him, that I would do something embarrassing. Luckily it didn’t get to 10!” joked Hawken.
“Overall the most important aspect was to keep the team in a good position. That is what kept me motivated. Hopefully we can push hard tomorrow and be a real force in this match”
