Abbas had crossed two only once in his last 12 county innings for Hampshire. He failed to score nine times during this phase, remaining unbeaten on five occasions. Overall, in 221 first-class innings, he averaged just 6.21, but that did not stop him from taking on Harmer when the two faced off at Southampton.

Walking in to bat after his side had collapsed to 106-9, Abbas stunned all when Harmer pitched the ball on the off-stump. To the horror of Harmer, he switched stance, then dispatched the ball away.

Harmer, however, had the last laugh in the end when he dismissed Abbas for a seven-ball six. Hampshire were all out for 120, and Essex ended day one with a lead of 25.

Watch Abbas’ reverse hit here:

Scenes. https://t.co/qLW19c3SjI pic.twitter.com/ys8meYP5K3

— Hampshire Hawks (@hantscricket) July 25, 2023