Mitchell Owen calls dream Australia debut against West Indies really special
Typically an opener in franchise cricket, Owen looked composed and confident at No. 6, guiding Australia through a tricky phase in the chase. Even with five fielders patrolling the boundary against spin, the right-hander remained unfazed."I honestly tried not to look at the field too much and just sort of react to each ball, which I think held me in good stead," he said. "Obviously it's a little bit different, but my process and game plan weren't too far off from opening. We had to strike at 10s or nines when I came out, so I still had to be nice and positive. If I took time to try and get into the innings, I feel like I'd dig myself a hole. So yeah, just tried to get after them from ball one."Owen earned his Australia call-up after a stellar Big Bash League season with the Hobart Hurricanes, where he scored two centuries as an opener. But his record in the middle order had been patchy before his debut-just 174 runs in 16 T20 innings between No. 3 and No. 8, averaging 14.50. Now, though, the tide appears to be turning for the talented Tasmanian.With Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh expected to anchor the top order in the 2026 T20 World Cup, selectors were eager to test Owen's versatility down the order-and the early signs are promising.Capping off an emotional debut, Owen received his first international cap from close friend and Hurricanes skipper Nathan Ellis, with his parents and partner watching on from the stands."Really special. He had some really nice words for me-super grateful that they got to experience that," he said.- Ends
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