MLC 2025
Freedom were humbled by SFU in the tournament opener. © MLC
In a season of MLC where three of the six teams have repeatedly grappled with issues and attempts to rake up points, Washington Freedom and San Francisco Unicorns have soared in the opposite direction. Matthew Short’s Unicorns have a blemish-free run so far – with six wins in as many games. Glenn Maxwell’s Freedom have responded exceptionally after the opening day defeat – to Unicorns – to go on a five-game winning run.
With form and appreciable combinations in tow, the two teams now seek the additional reward that comes with league-stage consistency. Unicorns have already sealed their spot in the playoffs but continuing to gallop like they have so far will help go a long way in guaranteeing them a top-two finish and the subsequent opportunity to take the shortest route to the final. Freedom haven’t sealed their berth yet but they too are in a very similar boat with 10 points from six fixtures. They however, have Texas Super Kings breathing down their necks for the coveted top-two spot from third, with only two points behind.
Getting one over Unicorns will be a massive shot in the arm for Freedom who were humbled by this opposition in the tournament opener. It will also give them a chance to test themselves against the best of the season and take stock of their credentials and abilities to go on to defend the title which they won last season.
When: Washington Freedom vs San Francisco Unicorns, 19th Match, June 28, 03:00 PM LOCAL
Where: Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas
What to expect: Runs, runs and more runs. The venue has been a batter’s ally, be it while setting a target or chasing. There’s scope to do both successfully at this venue, with the latest humdinger at the venue seeing a last-ball six give Seattle Orcas their first win – and also the highest successful chase in MLC history.
Team News:
Washington Freedom:If Mark Chapman has recovered from the niggle that kept him out two games ago, he should make a return in place of Jack Edwards.
Probable XI:Mitchell Owen, Rachin Ravindra, Andries Gous(w), Glenn Phillips, Glenn Maxwell(c), Jack Edwards/Mark Chapman, Obus Pienaar, Mukhtar Ahmed, Ian Holland, Saurabh Netravalkar, Mark Adair
San Francisco Unicorns: ‘Don’t try to fix what’s not broken’ should be the mantra for Matthew Short’s side as they look to go 7 wins in 7.
Probable XI: Matthew Short (c), Finn Allen, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Romario Shepherd, Hassan Khan, Jahmar Hamilton (wk), Xavier Bartlett, Haris Rauf, Carmi le Roux, Brody Couch
© Cricbuzz
