Mitch Owen clinched the spotlight during the Big Bash League final on January 27, 2025, at Bellerive Oval, leading the Hobart Hurricanes to their maiden championship with breathtaking performance. His record-breaking innings included the fastest century ever scored in BBL history, achieved off merely 39 balls, and the fastest hundred recorded during any final of the BBL, leaving fans and commentators alike stunned.
The match saw the Sydney Thunder put up a formidable score, batting first and posting 182 runs for 7 wickets. The innings was bolstered by David Warner and Jason Sangha, who collectively formed a solid opening partnership of 97 runs. Warner contributed 48 runs off 32 balls, but it was Sangha’s impressive 67 off 42 balls which kept the scoreboard ticking. Once they fell to the impressive bowling of Nathan Ellis and Riley Meredith, who both claimed three wickets, the Thunder's momentum drastically declined, managing just 36 runs from the last four overs.
Despite the Thunder’s seemingly competitive total, Owen had other plans. Coming to bat with confidence, he turned the game on its head, making quick work of the opposition's bowlers. His fifty came off just 16 balls—an astounding pace. He continued his onslaught to tally 108 runs off 42 balls, comprising 11 sixes and six fours, as the Hurricanes chased down the target with 35 balls to spare, securing victory by seven wickets.
The significance of Owen's performance extended beyond mere statistics. Post-match, he expressed his emotional response, stating, "It's an amazing feeling, lost for words. Super grateful to all the fans... Feels like a long time ago. I was just doing what I was enjoying throughout the whole tournament; luckily, it came off tonight as well." His humble yet triumphant attitude reflected the hard work and dedication he put forth throughout the tournament.
Former cricketer Michael Hussey remarked on Owen’s contribution, saying, "That is some of the most brutal hitting we’ve ever seen in the Big Bash – if not the world in T20 cricket." His assessment highlights the impressive nature of Owen's hitting ability, especially on such grand platforms.
Commentators and analysts went wild over Owen's knock, with Adam Gilchrist calling the scene "unforgettable moments...no one in attendance will forget what they just witnessed." These reactions encapsulate the adrenaline and euphoria felt by those present when Owen was at the crease.
For many fans, Owen's performance was legendary. AAP's Oliver Caffrey proclaimed, "Mitch Owen won’t have to buy a beer in Tassie ever again. Quite simply the greatest knock in BBL history," emphasizing his status as a hometown hero after the match.
The historical significance of this match cannot be overstated. Mitch Owen executed what many are calling one of the greatest innings ever seen, not only for the Hurricanes but throughout the Big Bash League's history. He has established himself as one of Australia's most potent young talents, topping the scoring charts for the tournament with incredible determination. His stats for BBL|14 were remarkable, including two centuries comprising 452 runs over 11 matches.
The uncertainty surrounding Owen’s career, especially after he failed to get selected for the IPL auction, has now transformed. His performance is likely to grab the attention of selectors and position him firmly on their radar for future opportunities. Mark Waugh suggested Owen deserved to be recognized by the national selectors, highlighting the prospect of his selection to the Australian T20 team.
The crowd erupted as Owen closed out his innings, receiving standing ovations and chants of his name, which echoed around Bellerive Oval, rendering the atmosphere electric. His cricketing ancestry began 13 years ago as he avidly attended Hurricanes matches as a teenager, which makes this victory even more poignant.
This title win is especially sweet for the Hobart Hurricanes, who have faced disappointments in previous finals, but with Owen’s stunning play, they finally lifted their first BBL trophy. The victory shines brightly as Melbourne Stars remain the only team yet to add their name to the coveted championship list. With this win, the Hurricanes not only change their fate but also redefine their legacy within the league.
The sensational match drew attention worldwide, and it remains to be seen how Mitch Owen will wield this opportunity moving forward. What is certain is the spotlight now shines brightly on him, as cricket enthusiasts wait to see what will come next in this rising star’s career.