Mitch Owen’s Breakout as Hobart Hurricanes' Century-Making Opener

Mitch Owen’s rise to prominence as the Hobart Hurricanes’ explosive opening batter has been nothing short of remarkable, with his powerful performances propelling the team into contention for their first Big Bash League (BBL) title. The 23-year-old, who had previously batted lower down the order, has transformed the Hurricanes’ batting lineup after being thrust into the top spot for the first time this season.

Owen, a towering 6-foot-5 allrounder, had spent much of his early BBL career batting at No. 7 or 8, primarily used as a seam bowling option. Despite flashes of brilliance in previous seasons, including some devastating hits at the death, his true potential had remained largely untapped. However, a shift in his role came after an intra-club match just days before the season, where Owen’s blistering 80 runs off 40 balls as an opener caught the attention of the coaching staff.

“It probably helped me a bit,” Owen reflected. “Who knows what would have happened if I got out for a duck.” That performance, coupled with a pre-season heads-up from Hurricanes assistant coach James Hopes, paved the way for his promotion to the top of the order.

TAKING THE CHANCE

Before this season, Owen had played just 13 BBL matches, rarely featuring in the spotlight ahead of big-hitters like Matthew Wade, Ben McDermott, and Tim David. His raw power, however, was always evident, and the Hurricanes were keen to find a way to better utilize his skills. At 100kg, Owen’s sheer strength and imposing presence at the crease made him a dangerous proposition for bowlers. With a new role in mind, Owen received encouragement from coach Jeff Vaughan: “Be ready, you might be used at the top of the order. Go out there and take your chance.”

Despite a shaky start to the season, where the Hurricanes were bowled out for just 74 against the Melbourne Renegades, Owen’s confidence grew. He quickly reassessed his approach after his initial seven-ball failure, telling himself to strip back his aggressive instincts and focus on playing more controlled shots. 

THE GAME-CHANGING CENTURY

That shift in mindset paid off during the Hurricanes’ next match against the Perth Scorchers. With the team under pressure, Owen delivered a blistering 101* from 64 balls, including five sixes, leading his side to a memorable victory. “It was very special, having my family and friends in the crowd,” Owen said after his match-winning century, a performance that helped spark the Hurricanes’ season.

Although Owen has not consistently replicated that level of dominance, his growing confidence is clear. In a recent match against the Adelaide Strikers, he showcased his power hitting once again, clearing the roof with a 111-meter six. “The most important thing is keeping my head nice and still,” Owen said, acknowledging that the key to his success lies in maintaining his balance and focus at the crease.

THE ALLROUNDER POTENTIAL

While Owen's batting prowess has shone in the BBL, his bowling remains an underutilized weapon. Capable of bowling in the mid-130s kph, his height gives him the ability to generate awkward bounce, a skill that could further enhance his allrounder status. Despite having not yet featured with the ball in this season’s BBL, Owen remains determined to establish himself as a true allrounder.

“I love both batting and bowling,” Owen said. “I feel like I will be an allrounder in my career. It’s about being more consistent with the ball and earning that trust from the captain and coaches.”

A BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD

With the potential for future selection in Australia’s national setup, Owen is focused on the present, aiming to help the Hurricanes finally end their title drought. “It would be an absolute honour to win the first title for the Hurricanes,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s success.

As the Hurricanes push for the playoffs, Owen’s transformation from an underutilized lower-order batter to a dynamic opening force has been a key factor in their rise. The future looks bright for the young allrounder, whose blend of power and promise has the cricket world watching closely.