Sydney Thunder vs Hobart Hurricanes: Owen powers Hurricanes to maiden BBL title

Mitch Owen smashes fastest BBL final 100, leads Hobart Hurricanes to maiden title with record-tying 108 off 42 balls.

Hobart Hurricanes 185/3 (Owen 108, Wade 32) defeat Sydney Thunder 182/7 (Sangha 67, Warner 48, Ellis 3-23, Meredith 3-27) by seven wickets*

Mitchell Owen delivered a career-defining performance, smashing an electrifying 108 off 42 balls as the Hobart Hurricanes secured their first Big Bash League title with a dominant seven-wicket win over the Sydney Thunder at Bellerive Oval.

Chasing 183, the Hurricanes surged to victory in just 14.1 overs, with Owen equaling the fastest century in BBL history. His blistering knock, featuring 11 sixes and 5 boundaries, stunned a capacity crowd and left the Thunder's bowling attack in tatters.

 

 

 

 

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Owen's record-breaking innings

Owen’s promotion to opener proved a masterstroke, as he reached his half-century in just 16 balls, the fastest in a BBL final, before reaching his century in 39 balls, matching Craig Simmons' 2014 record. The 23-year-old’s fearless hitting dismantled the Thunder, with Wes Agar conceding 22 runs in one over.

With his remarkable performance, Owen cemented his status as a breakout star, attracting attention from national selectors and franchise leagues alike.

Thunder's strong start falters

Sent in to bat, the Thunder made a strong start, with David Warner (48) and Jason Sangha (67) adding a record 97-run opening stand for a BBL final. Sangha, returning to form late in the season, led the charge, while Warner mixed power with quick running between the wickets.

However, Hurricanes skipper Nathan Ellis changed the game with his slower deliveries, removing Warner and Matthew Gilkes in quick succession. Ellis, who finished with 3/23, partnered with Riley Meredith (3/27) to dismantle the Thunder's middle order, restricting them to 182/7.

Hurricanes' clinical chase

Despite Thunder's total being the fourth-highest in a BBL final, Owen ensured it was never enough. He dominated the powerplay, scoring 58 off 18 balls, and propelled the Hurricanes to 74/0 in just four overs. After Owen's dismissal in the 11th over, Matthew Wade (32*) and Ben McDermott comfortably finished the chase with 35 balls to spare.

A historic moment for Hobart

This victory marks a milestone for the Hurricanes, who had come close in previous seasons but never clinched the title. Owen’s explosive innings not only secured the trophy but also showcased the talent of a local boy turned hero, leaving fans and commentators in awe.

With this historic win, the Hurricanes have finally etched their name among BBL champions, and Owen’s unforgettable innings will remain a cornerstone of their legacy.

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