Shimron Hetmyer delivered one of the most dramatic finishes in Major League Cricket (MLC) history, smashing a last-ball six to guide the Seattle Orcas to a stunning three-wicket win over MI New York, chasing down a mammoth 238-run target at Grand Prairie Stadium. The victory marked the highest successful chase in MLC history and ended the Orcas’ five-match losing streak.
🏏 Hetmyer’s Heroics: 97* Off 40 Balls
Despite battling a groin injury, Hetmyer produced a masterclass:
- Scored an unbeaten 97 off 40 balls
- Hammered 9 sixes and 5 fours
- Hit 23 runs in the 19th over to bring the equation down to 9 off 6
- Finished the match with a six off Kieron Pollard’s final delivery, launching it over fine leg
“It was all or nothing. I knew I had to finish it,” Hetmyer said post-match, visibly limping but elated.
🔥 Pooran, Dhillon Power MI New York to 237/4
Earlier, MI New York posted a daunting total:
- Nicholas Pooran: 108* (60 balls)
- Tajinder Dhillon: 95 (35 balls)
- Their 158-run stand is now the highest partnership in MLC history
Despite the fireworks, their efforts were overshadowed by Hetmyer’s late blitz.
🔄 Leadership Shake-Up Sparks Orcas Revival
The Orcas, finalists last season, had lost five straight games before:
- Sacking head coach Matthew Mott
- Replacing Heinrich Klaasen with Sikandar Raza as captain
Raza’s cameo (30 off 9) and Kyle Mayers’ 37 off 20 gave the chase early momentum.
📊 MLC 2025: Updated Standings
With this win:
- Seattle Orcas, MI New York, and LA Knight Riders are now tied with one win each from six matches
- Orcas remain in playoff contention despite a poor start
Stay tuned for playoff race updates and more MLC drama.
