Australia fast bowler Mahli Beardman delivered one of the most stunning ODI debuts in cricket history, claiming 6 wickets for 24 runs in just 7.4 overs to dismantle England for 131 at Optus Stadium, Perth, on 13 November 2026. Australia cantered to victory in 23.3 overs, winning by seven wickets in the first of three 50-over matches in the series.

Historic Figures on a Big Stage

Beardman's 6-24 are the best bowling figures ever recorded by an Australian on ODI debut, eclipsing previous benchmarks with a devastating combination of pace, swing, and seam movement. The 21-year-old was duly adjudged Player of the Match, making him only the 10th Australian to earn that honour on debut. England's batting line-up had no answer to his relentless accuracy and movement as the Three Lions were bundled out well short of a competitive total.

'Still Very Raw and Quite Surreal'

Speaking to reporters after the match, a visibly overwhelmed Beardman described the feeling as one he was still processing. 'Laying in bed last night, that's not what I had planned,' he said. 'Obviously, such an amazing game, and I think it's still very raw and quite surreal. I think it'll just be sitting back tonight with my family at home and go through what happened. I think it'll just take time for it to set in.'

The Heroes Who Shaped Him

Beardman cited South African fast-bowling great Dale Steyn and former Australia left-arm speedster Mitchell Johnson as his primary inspirations. It was Johnson's legendary 2013-14 Ashes campaign — where Johnson scalped 37 wickets at a staggering average of 13.97 — that first drew Beardman to cricket. 'Mitchell Johnson for that 2013-14 Ashes series was sort of the reason I picked a cricket ball up in the first place,' he said. 'And I've been lucky enough and fortunate enough to be able to have some chats with Mitch, and he's a great man. What he did for cricket inspired me the most, I think.'

On Steyn, he added: 'Dale Steyn was a massive one for me. Absolutely loved watching him bowl growing up.'

Dennis Lillee's Role as Mentor

Australian fast-bowling legend Dennis Lillee — referred to by Beardman affectionately as 'DK' — has served as his mentor after a family friend facilitated the introduction. Beardman revealed that Lillee initially declined before eventually relenting. 'DK sort of said no at the start, and then I think just through my persistence after a couple of months, he gave in. I've been fortunate enough to have DK in my corner, and it's been incredible for me,' he said.

Hussey's Cap Presentation and a School Connection

Former Australia batsman Michael Hussey presented Beardman with his debut cap — a moment made more personal by the fact that Beardman went to school with Hussey's son and played cricket alongside him. 'To have Mike there was amazing. I went to school with Mike's son. Played a lot of cricket with him growing up,' Beardman said. 'Mike and I have obviously had some good chats along the way. He's been incredible for me and his speech was beautiful.' The series continues with the second ODI, where England will be desperate to level the contest.