Mitchell Owen delivered a once-in-a-lifetime performance as the Hobart Hurricanes claimed their first Big Bash League (BBL) title with a commanding seven-wicket victory over the Sydney Thunder at Bellerive Oval. Owen’s explosive 108 off just 42 balls guided the Hurricanes to chase down 183 in a mere 14.1 overs, sealing a historic win that will be remembered for years.
Owen’s Record-Breaking Knock
Promoted to open, the 23-year-old Mitchell Owen played the innings of his life, equaling the fastest century in BBL history with a 39-ball masterpiece. His ferocious batting included 11 towering sixes and five boundaries, leaving the Thunder bowlers shell-shocked. Owen also set a record for the fastest half-century in a BBL final, reaching the milestone in just 16 balls.
Owen’s innings was a nightmare for Thunder bowler Wes Agar, who conceded 22 runs in one over. By the time Owen fell in the 11th over, the Hurricanes were already cruising toward victory. His exceptional performance has not only won him accolades but also likely caught the attention of national selectors and global T20 franchises.
Thunder’s Strong Start Undone by Hurricanes’ Bowlers
Batting first, the Sydney Thunder got off to a flying start with a record 97-run opening partnership between David Warner (48) and Jason Sangha (67)—the highest for a BBL final. Sangha played a leading role, combining elegant stroke play with aggression, while Warner’s experience showed in his powerful hitting and swift running between the wickets.
However, Hurricanes captain Nathan Ellis turned the game on its head with his clever slower deliveries. Ellis, who finished with 3/23, dismissed both Warner and Matthew Gilkes in quick succession. Riley Meredith (3/27) joined the party, dismantling the Thunder’s middle order and restricting them to 182/7—a total that looked competitive but proved insufficient.
Hurricanes’ Clinical Chase
Despite the Thunder posting the fourth-highest score in a BBL final, the Hurricanes made light work of the target, thanks to Owen’s fireworks. His 58 runs in the powerplay set the tone, and by the fourth over, the Hurricanes had reached a staggering 74/0.
After Owen’s dismissal, Matthew Wade (32)* and Ben McDermott ensured there were no hiccups, finishing the chase with 35 balls to spare.
A Historic Triumph for Hobart Hurricanes
This long-awaited title is a defining moment for the Hurricanes, who had come close to glory in previous seasons but fell short. Mitchell Owen’s extraordinary innings not only secured the trophy but also wrote his name in the BBL history books as one of the competition’s greatest performances.
The Hurricanes’ maiden BBL title has finally placed them among the league’s elite, and their victory, powered by a local hero, will remain a cherished memory for fans.
