MI New York have finally registered their first victory in Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025, successfully chasing down a formidable target of 201 against the Seattle Orcas. A spectacular innings from American captain Monank Patel (93), a crucial half-century from Michael Bracewell, and a vintage finishing cameo from Kieron Pollard ensured a comfortable seven-wicket win with an over to spare.
Orcas Post Strong Total Thanks to Mayers
Earlier in the match, after winning the toss and electing to bat, the Seattle Orcas put up a competitive total of 200/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Kyle Mayers was the star of their innings, smashing a fluent 88 runs off just 46 deliveries, including 10 sixes and three fours. Contributions from opener Shayan Jahangir (43) and captain Heinrich Klaasen (27) further bolstered their score. Naveen-ul-Haq was the pick of the bowlers for MI New York, securing two key wickets.
Monank Patel Anchors Record-Breaking Chase
MI New York’s chase got off to a shaky start with the early dismissal of Quinton de Kock for 14. However, Monank Patel, the Indian-born USA captain, took charge, playing a magnificent innings that saw him record the highest individual score by an American player in MLC history. Patel’s 93 runs came off just 50 balls, laced with eight fours and seven sixes, as he expertly navigated the chase and kept the scoreboard ticking at a rapid rate. He stitched together a crucial 119-run partnership with Michael Bracewell, setting the platform for the victory.
Bracewell’s Crucial Fifty and Pollard’s Finishing Flair
While Monank provided the early impetus, Michael Bracewell played a vital supporting role, compiling an unbeaten 50 off 35 balls. Bracewell, who also bowled an economical spell earlier (1/20), ensured there were no late jitters. After Monank’s departure, Kieron Pollard stepped in and rolled back the years with a blistering cameo. The veteran all-rounder smashed an unbeaten 26 off just 10 deliveries, including a flurry of boundaries in the final overs, to seal the win for MI New York with six balls remaining.
First Points on the Board for MI New York
This dominant performance marks MI New York’s first points in MLC 2025, moving them up the points table. Conversely, the Seattle Orcas remain winless after three matches, highlighting the need for them to regroup quickly as the tournament progresses to Dallas, Texas. Sikandar Raza was the only bowler to find some success for the Orcas, picking up two wickets, but lacked support from the rest of the attack.
