Washington Freedom annihilated MI New York by 94 runs, extending their winning streak to four matches in the ongoing MLC. Batting first, Travis Head (54 off 33) and Andries Gous’ (59 off 48) valuable knocks helped Freedom post a hefty 182 runs in 20 overs. In response, the New York side collapsed, managing only 88 runs in 13.3 overs, thanks to Jasdeep Singh’s (3/14) skillful bowling.
Match Summary
- Toss: Kieron Pollard (MINY) won the toss and opted to bowl first.
- Washington Freedom Innings: 182/5 in 20 overs
- Andries Gous: 59 (48)
- Travis Head: 54 (33)
- Key Bowler: Kieron Pollard (2/14) in two overs.
- MI New York Innings: 88/10 in 13.3 overs
- Romario Shepherd: 25 (14)
- Trent Boult: 16 (13)
- Key Bowler: Jasdeep Singh (3/14) in three overs.
Key Moments
Rashid Khan Draws the First Blood
Skipper Kieron Pollard employed the spin wizard during the powerplay, which proved fruitful for MI New York. Rashid trapped Washington skipper Steve Smith for just 8 runs in his second over, providing an early breakthrough for his side. It is pertinent to mention that this was only the second time Smith has been dismissed in this MLC. 
Head’s Fantastic Fifty
The Aussie batter took his time to settle at the crease and wasn’t too aggressive during the powerplay. However, he shifted gears and scored briskly once he found his rhythm. He smashed 54 runs off just 33 balls, with 9 fours and 2 sixes, laying a solid foundation for his side.
Rachin Ravindra’s Cameo
The Kiwi batter came out to bat at number five, providing the necessary acceleration in the death overs. He smashed 31 runs off just 14 balls, hitting 2 fours and 2 sixes, helping his side cross the 180-run mark.
Jansen Strikes In The First Over
The left-arm pacer spearheaded with the new ball and got some lateral movement from the word go. He trapped Steven Taylor for a 3-ball duck with a peach of a delivery in the opening over of the innings, drawing first blood and providing a solid start to Freedom.
Jasdeep Singh’s Impressive Bowling Display
The squad included the right-arm pacer instead of the star bowler Saurabh Netravalkar, who missed out on the game for personal reasons. Jasdeep grabbed the opportunity with both hands and shone with the ball. He shared the new ball alongside Jansen and wreaked havoc in the powerplay. The pacer grabbed three wickets in three overs and put MI New York in deep waters. Monank Patel (4 off 6), Dewald Brevis (2 off 5), and Kieron Pollard (4 off 9) were the batters to succumb to Jasdeep’s guile. His impressive bowling helped Washington secure a massive 94-run victory. The 31-year-old was awarded Player of the Match for his stupendous bowling effort.
Implications and Future Prospects
MI New York’s batting has faltered miserably in this tournament, and despite trying different combinations, they failed to achieve the desired result and suffered a humiliating defeat. Only Romario Shepherd (25) and Trent Boult (16) scored in double digits. Boult has struggled to take wickets with the new ball in the last three games, allowing opposing openers to settle and build partnerships. Overall, the defending champions struggle in all aspects of the game and must stage a comeback in the next match to stay alive in the tournament.
Conversely, things are going quite well for Washington Freedom in this MLC. They are unbeaten in this tournament and have become the first team to qualify for the playoffs. Even without their star bowler and leading wicket-taker, Saurabh Netravalkar, they maintained dominance with the ball in this match. It’s fair to say that Washington has all their bases covered and is the top contender to win this year’s MLC.
Upcoming Fixtures
- MI New York vs San Francisco Unicorns: July 18 (local time)
- Texas Super Kings vs Washington Freedom: July 19 (local time)
Conclusion
Washington Freedom have cemented their place in the playoffs and aim to finish in the top two. They are at the top of the points table with nine points from five games.
Conversely, MI New York is struggling at number five on the points table, with just three points from five games. The defending champions desperately need a win to stay alive in this tournament.
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- Mohsin Powers Texas Super Kings to First MLC Victory
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