Mahli Beardman Makes History With Explosive 6/24 On ODI Debut

Australia have consistently produced some of the world’s most dangerous fast bowlers, and another promising name has now joined that elite group. The 21-year-old pace bowler Mahli Beardman produced a stunning performance against England in his first One Day International at Optus Stadium in Perth.

His outstanding spell not only helped Australia control their arch-rivals but also broke a long-standing national record. Here is everything you need to know about the rising Australian fast bowler.

Who is Mahli Beardman?

Beardman was born on August 31, 2005, in Dunsborough, Western Australia. He spent his early years in Margaret River, a coastal area known for its beaches, surfing culture and vineyards.

With ambitions of becoming a professional cricketer, Beardman moved to Perth, where he developed through Western Australia’s cricketing system. His strong performances at junior level soon put him in the spotlight as one of the country’s promising pace-bowling prospects.

Rapid rise through domestic cricket

Beardman’s journey into senior cricket began at a young age. He made his List A debut for Western Australia in the One-Day Cup in November 2023, aged 18.

His progress continued over the following seasons, and he earned an opportunity with the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League (BBL) in January 2025. The opportunity allowed him to showcase his skills in Australia’s premier domestic T20 competition and gain valuable experience against established international players.

Has already dismissed Steve Smith in the BBL

Beardman demonstrated his ability to trouble experienced batters well before earning his ODI debut. Representing the Perth Scorchers during the BBL|15 final, the young speedster produced an outstanding performance in the Qualifier.

He finished with impressive figures of 3/20, with the dismissal of Australian batting superstar Steve Smith standing out as a highlight of his spell. The performance further underlined his potential to make an impact at the highest level.

International career began against Pakistan

Although his ODI debut against England attracted considerable attention, Beardman had already represented Australia in international cricket earlier in 2026.

He made his T20 International debut against Pakistan in Lahore on January 29, 2026. Bowling in challenging subcontinental conditions, the right-arm pacer showed encouraging composure and took two wickets for 33 runs, returning figures of 2/33.

Rewrites 38-year-old Australian record on ODI debut

Beardman produced a dream start to his ODI career against England in Perth. The 21-year-old showcased his pace and accuracy to dismantle the visitors’ batting lineup, finishing with remarkable figures of 6/24 in 7.4 overs as England were dismissed for just 131 runs.

His performance broke a 38-year-old Australian men’s record for the best bowling figures on ODI debut. Beardman surpassed Tony Dodemaide’s previous benchmark of 5/21, which he registered against Sri Lanka in 1988.

The youngster also achieved a significant milestone in international cricket. He became only the second Australian male cricketer to claim a five-wicket haul on his ODI debut. Furthermore, his figures of 6/24 rank as the fourth-best bowling performance by a debutant in men’s ODI cricket.

Played a crucial role in Australia’s U19 World Cup triumph

Beardman’s ability to deliver on the biggest occasions was evident before his senior international breakthrough. He was part of Australia’s victorious campaign at the 2024 ICC Under-19 World Cup in South Africa.

The fast bowler claimed 10 wickets throughout the tournament and saved an exceptional performance for the final against India. He picked up three wickets for just 15 runs, playing a decisive role in Australia’s title-winning victory. His contribution also earned him the Player of the Match award.

With Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood having led Australia’s pace attack for several years, the team will eventually need a new generation of fast bowlers to take responsibility. Beardman’s sensational ODI debut has given Australian selectors another exciting option, and his latest performance suggests he could have a significant role to play in the country’s fast-bowling future.

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