Pakistani pacer Mohammad Hasnain on Sunday became the first bowler in the Big Bash League – Australian franchise T20 cricket league – history to take three wickets in first over in the competition.

Hasnain, 21, is playing for Sydney Thunder in the tournament that also stars other Pakistani players – including Harris Rauf, Fakhar Zaman, Syed Faridoun Mahmood, and Shadab Khan. In a match against Adelaide Strikers, the right-arm fast bowler picked three wickets – Matthew Short, Jake Weatherald and Jonathan Wells – in his first over which was also a maiden.

He completed his four-over spell with figures of 3/20, helping Thunder to restrict Strikers on 144 while defending 173. Such a feat prompted the cricketers around the world to shower praise on Hasnain.

Australian batter Usman Khawaja said: "Husnain bowling rockets."

Sports reporter Nic Savage named Hasnain as his favourite player.

Former cricketer Sana Mir also appreciated the young bowler for the achievement.

Former Pakistani cricket team coach Mickey Arthur also joined the appreciation.

Another sports writer Alex Fair said: "One of the great BBL debuts from Hasnain. What a special over that was."