In a high-octane final of the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025, MI New York emerged victorious for the second time, edging past Washington Freedom in a nail-biting contest at Grand Prairie Stadium, Texas. The thrilling five-run win crowned MI New York as two-time MLC champions.

De Kock's Firepower Lays the Foundation

Opting to bat first after losing the toss, MI New York put up a competitive total of 180/6 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Quinton de Kock, who played a blistering knock of 77 runs off 46 deliveries, peppered with boundaries and smart rotation of strike.

He was supported by Monank Patel (28 off 22) at the top, while Nicholas Pooran (21) and Tajinder Singh (14) contributed crucial runs in the middle overs.

On the bowling front for Freedom, Lockie Ferguson stood out with 3 wickets, while Saurabh Netravalkar, Glenn Maxwell, Jack Edwards, and Ian Holland chipped in with a wicket each.

Rachin Ravindra Leads the Fightback for Freedom

In response, Washington Freedom got off to a disastrous start, losing Mitchell Owen and Andries Gous for ducks. However, Rachin Ravindra stepped up with a fluent 70 off 41 balls, stabilising the innings and steering the chase into a promising zone.

He found a solid partner in Glenn Phillips, who remained unbeaten on 48 off 34 deliveries. Their partnership gave Freedom hope, taking the game deep into the final overs.

Last Over Drama Seals It for MI New York

With 12 runs needed off the final over, the dismissal of Glenn Maxwell (15) turned the game on its head. MI New York held their nerves as the bowlers executed perfect death-over plans, denying Freedom the big hits needed to cross the line.

Ultimately, MI New York won by 5 runs, lifting their second MLC trophy in just three seasons of the league's existence.