Shiva Singh Shines with Hat-Trick as Noida Kings Secure Playoff Spot

Shiva Singh's Stellar Performance in UP T20 League

Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh) [India], August 31: In the high-stakes environment of T20 cricket, a familiar voice can make all the difference. For 26-year-old left-arm spinner Shiva Singh, that voice came just hours before a crucial match for the Noida Kings.

With the Noida Kings needing a victory to secure a playoff position in the UP T20 League 2026, the pressure was immense. The situation intensified when rain disrupted the game at Kanpur's Green Park Stadium, reducing the match against the unbeaten Meerut Mavericks to a frantic five-over contest. In a format where bowlers often struggle, Shiva delivered an unforgettable performance, achieving a hat-trick and a five-wicket haul with remarkable figures of 5/6 in just two overs.

The inspiration behind this extraordinary display? A timely phone call from his father and first coach, Ajit Singh, a former UP Ranji Trophy player.

“I hadn’t spoken to my dad during the first nine matches,” Shiva shared after the game, according to a UPT20 press release. “Today, he called and said, ‘It’s the last league game, just play like you always do. You are the main player of the team. Just perform as you do in local matches.’ That really helped me. I was feeling a lot of pressure before this, but thankfully, it turned out to be a great day,” he added.

Hailing from Moradabad, Shiva is well-acquainted with high-level cricket, having represented Uttar Pradesh in all formats domestically. However, a five-over shootout demands a different mindset.

“The strategy is quite straightforward,” Shiva explained regarding his approach to the shortened format. “Since it’s a brief match, you need to assess the batsman, the pitch, and the conditions, and bowl accordingly. You have to think differently from your usual big-match strategies. My primary goal was to avoid conceding boundaries,” he stated.

This tactical execution dismantled the Meerut Mavericks, who were bowled out for a mere 33 runs. Shiva became only the second bowler in UP T20 League history to achieve a hat-trick, enabling Noida to chase down the DLS target in just 3.3 overs.

Shiva's journey has been intertwined with some of the brightest talents in Indian cricket. He was a vital member of the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian squad that clinched the 2018 U19 World Cup, sharing the dressing room with captain Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, and Arshdeep Singh. While his former teammates have made their mark on the international stage, Shiva remains focused on his own development.

“To continue playing cricket, you must learn something new every day,” he reflected. “You need to maintain a learning mindset; only then can you progress. I don’t focus on where my peers are; I concentrate on balancing my strengths and weaknesses to perform well in matches,” he added.

For the first three seasons of the UP T20 League, Shiva was a key player for the Kashi Rudras, helping them secure two titles. This season, he entered the auction pool and was acquired by the Noida Kings for a substantial Rs 17.5 lakhs, making him one of the tournament's highest buys.

“As everyone knows, those who perform well here get a chance for the IPL and, importantly, for their state team,” Shiva remarked about the opportunities the league offers. “My goal is to excel here first. I’ve joined a new team this year after three seasons with Kashi, so I hope to help Noida win this time,” he added.

At Noida, he plays under the captaincy of Prashant Veer, who carries his own significant expectations. Veer made headlines when he was sold to the Chennai Super Kings for an impressive Rs 14.20 crore, becoming one of the most expensive uncapped players in IPL auction history. Having shared a dressing room with MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and other international stars, Veer’s elite experience is benefiting the Noida squad.

“Prashant has played in the IPL, so he brings a wealth of experience,” Shiva praised his captain. “This is his fourth year, and he has excelled in all four seasons. Previously, he was the sole performer for Noida, winning matches single-handedly. He is an excellent leader and a great team player, always stepping up in challenging situations. His character shines through—coming from the IPL and dominating here. He has a fantastic attitude towards cricket,” he added.

With 10 points secured, the Noida Kings have officially qualified for the Eliminator. If Shiva Singh's Moradabad grit and left-arm prowess continue to shine under Prashant Veer’s leadership, Noida could very well go all the way.