'It's changed my life': Emotional skipper Nathan Ellis tears up after Hobart's first BBL triumph
Nathan Ellis was left teary-eyed after the Hobart Hurricanes finally claimed their first Big Bash title with a dominant win over the Sydney Thunder.
Off the back of a blistering century from opener Mitch Owen, the franchise got a taste of silverware for the first time in the 14 editions of the tournament.
In front of a sold-out crowd at Bellerive Oval, emotions were running high for the entire squad, as well as the diehard fans who had been desperate for success.
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Speaking to Fox Cricket after the match, Ellis fought back tears as he explained the importance of bringing the trophy to Hobart for the first time.
Nathan Ellis tears up after the Hobart Hurricanes win. Getty/Fox Cricket
"Speechless is probably the best word for it," he said.
"It's been a long time coming - what an occasion tonight, what a game. I'm in awe of this team and I'm in awe of Mitchy Owen tonight ... I just feel so proud.
"I feel quite emotional right now - we have got a hell of a group, we worked really hard and I feel like we deserve to be here and deserve to be winners.
"Just super proud of the group. This is a really great moment for Tassie cricket."
It caps off an incredible journey for Ellis, who moved down to Tasmania from Sydney for an opportunity and has become one of the country's elite white-ball bowlers.
Ellis finished with figures of 3-23 off four overs in the final, including the big wickets of David Warner and Jason Sangha.
Nathan Ellis celebrates a wicket during the BBL final. Getty
Speaking at the trophy presentation, the 30-year-old opened up on his journey from Randwick Petersham and St George to becoming a champion with the Hurricanes.
"It's changed my life," Ellis said.
"I came down here as a budding grade cricketer sort of not knowing what way was up and never living out of home. Eight years later, I've played for my country, won a BBL title ... I'm really honoured I get to bring this title to the state of Tasmania.
"This one's for all of the cricket fans in Tasmania. Tasmanian cricket has changed my life – I feel really honoured to be a part of your first championship down here so this one is for you guys – all the past players and everyone who's been involved in the Hurricanes."
Ellis will be part of Australia's squad for the ICC Champions Trophy next month.
