Who is Mahli Beardman? The Young Pacer Shining in Big Bash League

One of the emerging fast bowlers from Australia in the last few years is Mahli Beardman, who is quite interesting. He was born in Dunsborough, Western Australia and is six foot two. It's his raw speed coupled with aggressive fast bowling that makes him stand out from the crowd. His run-up is fast, his build lean and wiry and, as a consequence, he regularly bowls in the middle of the 140 km/h range, making him most dangerous with the new ball.

Beardman became household at the 2024 ICC Under-19 World Cup, as he was a standout performer in Australia's campaign for the title. He took home 10 wickets from the event at an average of just 10.50 and an economy of 2.77. His star performance came during the final against India, where he took 3 for 15 and was named Player of the Match. The last Australian pacer to achieve that in a U19 World Cup final was Josh Hazlewood back in 2010.

Beardman did not wait for this latest success to step into senior cricket. He made his List A debut for Western Australia at the end of November 2023, playing against New South Wales. So far, he has competed in five List A matches, claiming 12 wickets while averaging 17.75. Last season, he claimed best bowling figures of 4 for 46 against South Australia. He has continued to impress with steady performances for WA as he returns from a back injury.

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Mahli Beardman Strikes Early to Rock Sydney Sixers in BBL Qualifier

Beardman carried all that confidence onto the Big Bash League 2025-26 Qualifier between Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers at Perth Stadium. Thrown into the attack early for the young pacer, he made an immediate impact.

Off his very first delivery, Beardman removed Josh Philippe with a sharp short-of-a-length ball that hurried the batter into a mistimed pull. The top edge flew safely to Josh Inglis, giving Perth the perfect start. Beardman's pace really unsettled the top order of the Sixers.

He was not done by that point. He held it tight in that over before coming back for the wicket of Henriques again. Another rapid short-of-length delivery outside off from Beardman forced Henriques to flop his attempt as he hoisted the top edge that was comfortable to Aaron Hardie at mid-wicket.

Beardman celebrated with noticeable emotion, punching the air as the Scorchers found renewed energy. His spell dangled Perth back into the contest and underscored why he is viewed as a long-term prospect for Australian cricket.

On a big stage, Mahli Beardman was composed and confident and fast-a clear indication that he is a fast bowler with a very bright future ahead.