Is Mitchell Owen Excited to Play in the Middle Order Ahead of T20Is Against West Indies?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mitchell Owen is adaptable and ready to embrace any role in the team.
- His recent performances have put him on the radar for international cricket.
- Collaboration with the CA medical team has aided his recovery and readiness.
- Tim David's return adds depth to Australia's batting order.
- Owen's global experience positions him as a key player for Australia.
Kingston, July 19 (NationPress) With Australia boasting an impressive array of top-order talent ahead of the T20I series against the West Indies that kicks off on Monday, budding all-rounder Mitchell Owen expressed his enthusiasm for potentially stepping into the middle order. Owen is one of two likely debutants in Australia's squad for the Caribbean T20Is, joining left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann.
After smashing a 39-ball century in the Big Bash League final against the Sydney Thunder and leading the Hobart Hurricanes to their first title, Owen has been on a globe-trotting journey, competing in South Africa’s SA20 league, the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the Indian Premier League (IPL), and the Major League Cricket (MLC) in the United States, where he recently earned the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.
“Since the Big Bash, everything has happened so quickly. It's a whirlwind, making it tough to pause and reflect on the past six to eight months. But it's exciting; playing cricket globally has always been my dream,” Owen shared.
“I’m taking it one tour at a time, sticking to my process, and learning from each opportunity.”
“There are some phenomenal players in our lineup, so if I have to bat lower down the order, I’m eager to embrace that role. It doesn't matter where I fit in; if I get a game, I'll be thrilled,” Owen stated on the Unplayable Podcast on Saturday.
This series will also mark the return of Tim David to competitive cricket after suffering a hamstring injury while fielding, sidelining him during the IPL 2025 playoffs, where the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured their first title.
“Unfortunately, the injury was worse than expected, but I was there when the RCB team clinched the final, which was fantastic. Winning a franchise's first trophy is incredibly rewarding,” David remarked.
“I had a solid rehabilitation period at home. I rarely get to spend time at home due to my schedule, but being there for four weeks—my longest stay in the next year—was beneficial for setting up my future.”
“The CA medical team connected me with an excellent physiotherapist and strength and conditioning coach who helped me significantly. I also enjoyed some downtime on the golf course, catching up with friends and family, which recharged me ahead of a busy international series with Australia and other T20 commitments,” he added.