A Thrilling One-Day Cup Victory for Tasmania
On a sun-soaked Sunday at Adelaide Oval, Tasmania clinched a nail-biting two-wicket victory over South Australia in the One-Day Cup, thanks to a sensational century from Mitch Owen. Despite the formidable total set by South Australia, Owen’s blistering knock of 149 off just 69 balls, peppered with 14 fours and 10 sixes, propelled the visitors to a memorable win. This performance was reminiscent of his heroics in the BBL final, where he scored 108 off 42 balls to lift the Hobart Hurricanes to victory over the Sydney Thunder. Owen’s highly charged innings helped Tasmania reach 197 for 3 by the 20th over, setting the stage for a remarkable run chase.
South Australia’s Dominant Performance
South Australia, already secured as the ladder leaders and the hosts of the Dean Jones Cup Final, put up a formidable display in their innings. Mackenzie Harvey and Daniel Drew shone, with Harvey scoring a brilliant century and Drew contributing a solid 63 runs. Their partnership laid a strong foundation, helping South Australia post a competitive total of 329 for 9. By the 33rd over, South Australia had already amassed 207 runs, losing only one wicket. The momentum they built was crucial, making it seem as though victory was within their grasp as the match progressed.
Owen’s Heroic Knock
Mitch Owen’s innings was nothing short of a masterclass. Reaching his century in a mere 48 balls, Owen displayed the kind of form that has made him a rising star in Australian cricket. His aggressive batting style was on full display, as he punished South Australia’s bowlers with ferocity. Jordan Buckingham and Wes Agar, who bore the brunt of Owen’s assault, struggled to contain him, conceding 79 and 91 runs respectively in their overs. Owen’s knock not only provided the necessary firepower but also brought a sense of belief to Tasmania’s dressing room, making a daunting target seem achievable.
The Turn of the Match
However, Owen’s innings came to an abrupt end when he was bowled between his legs by Wes Agar in the 39th over. At this point, Tasmania found themselves in a precarious position at 291 for 8, with only nine overs left and 39 runs still required to win. The loss of Owen could have shifted the momentum entirely in South Australia’s favor, but the courage and determination of the remaining Tasmania batsmen ensured the match remained in the balance. It was a moment of high drama, with the home crowd hoping for a collapse and the visitors desperate to hold on.
Final Stages of the Chase
With the pressure mounting, Will Prestwidge and Tom Rogers stepped up to the challenge. Prestwidge, who remained not out on 26, and Rogers, who scored 16, played crucial roles in the final overs. They batted with a calm and composed demeanor, ensuring that Tasmania did not lose any more wickets. Their partnership, though not as explosive as Owen’s, was just what the team needed to navigate the final stages of the run chase. With six balls to spare, they crossed the line, securing a two-wicket victory and adding another chapter to Owen’s growing legacy of match-winning performances.
The Road to the Final
The match was part of the lead-up to the Dean Jones Cup Final, which saw South Australia face Victoria at Adelaide Oval on March 1. South Australia’s victory over Tasmania, combined with Victoria’s win over New South Wales, ensured that Adelaide would host the final. Victoria, who moved from fourth to second place, will join South Australia in the final, while Tasmania finished the season in fifth spot with a record of three wins, three losses, and one no-result from their seven games. Despite not making the final, Tasmania’s performance, particularly Owen’s thrilling innings, was a testament to their fighting spirit and the potential they carry for the future.
