In a thrilling One-Day Cup match, Tasmania edged out South Australia by two wickets despite a formidable score of 329 for 9 by the hosts. Mitch Owen starred for Tasmania, scoring a remarkable 149 off just 69 balls, including 14 fours and 10 sixes. He reached his century in 48 balls and led a rapid chase, putting Tasmania at 197 for 3 within 20 overs. Although Tasmania faced some losses, Will Prestwidge (26 not out) and Tom Rogers (16 not out) secured the victory with six balls remaining. South Australia secured a spot in the upcoming Dean Jones Cup final against Victoria.
Tasmania 330 for 8 (Owen 149) defeated South Australia 329 for 9 (Harvey 129, Drew 63, Webster 3-48) by two wickets
During Tasmania’s run chase, Owen went into overdrive, hitting 14 fours and 10 sixes in a remarkable innings that propelled the team to 197 for 3 by the 20th over.
He reached his century in just 48 balls, closely mirroring his explosive performance in the BBL final, where he scored 108 off 42 balls to lead the Hobart Hurricanes to victory against the Sydney Thunder.
Owen’s innings finally concluded when he was bowled by Wes Agar, leaving Tasmania at 291 for 8 in the 39th over.
With 39 runs still needed for victory, Will Prestwidge (26 not out) and Tom Rogers (16 not out) steadied themselves to guide their team to victory with six balls remaining.
South Australia entered the match knowing they had already clinched a place in the final on March 1 and secured hosting rights after Victoria defeated New South Wales.
This outcome propelled Victoria from fourth to second place, ensuring their spot in the final against South Australia next Saturday at Adelaide Oval. Tasmania concluded their season in fifth place with three wins and three losses, along with one no-result from seven matches.
South Australia raced out of the blocks on Sunday, reaching 207 for 1 by the 33rd over, thanks to the dominance of Harvey and Drew.
Allrounder Beau Webster played a vital role in minimizing the scoring, ensuring South Australia’s total remained within reach.
Even though Tasmania lost wickets at regular intervals, Owen’s explosive batting kept their run chase alive.
The 23-year-old took the South Australian bowlers to task, with Jordan Buckingham (1-79 off eight overs) and Wes Agar (2-91 off 10 overs) bearing the brunt of his assault. Spinner Lloyd Pope stood out for South Australia and came close to a hat-trick as he nearly turned the match in favor of the home side.