Record-Breaking Finish: Hetmyer Lifts Seattle Orcas to Highest Chase in MLC History

In a match that redefined Major League Cricket standards, Shimron Hetmyer delivered a final-ball six to clinch a stunning three-wicket victory for the Seattle Orcas over MI New York, chasing down a record 237 runs. The result not only gave the Orcas their first win of the season, but also marked the highest successful run chase in MLC history.

Pooran and Tajinder Power MI New York to Massive Total

MI New York put up a mammoth total of 237 for 4 after a historic 158-run partnership between Nicholas Pooran and Tajinder Singh lit up Grand Prairie Stadium. Pooran returned to form in spectacular fashion, smashing 108 off 60 balls with eight sixes—the most ever by an MI New York batter.

Tajinder Singh, playing in front of his home crowd, came agonizingly close to a century of his own. His 95 off just 35 balls featured eight fours and eight sixes. Together, the duo broke the franchise’s previous partnership record, creating a dominant middle-overs stand that looked insurmountable at the halfway mark.

Orcas’ Powerplay Response Sets the Tone

The Seattle Orcas, facing an uphill task, countered quickly with an explosive powerplay. Kyle Mayers (37 off 20) and Sikandar Raza (30 off 9) led a fierce assault in the opening six overs, helping the team post 86—the highest powerplay total in the 2025 season so far.

Despite a steady flow of wickets, timely cameos from Heinrich Klaasen (26 off 13) and a composed run chase structure allowed the Orcas to keep the required rate within reach.

Hetmyer’s Last-Over Heroics Seal the Chase

The match turned into a classic finish when the Orcas needed a strong finisher. Enter Shimron Hetmyer. With the game hanging in the balance and tailenders running out, Hetmyer stayed cool under pressure and produced a masterclass in power-hitting. His unbeaten 97 off 45 balls included nine sixes and five boundaries, culminating in a last-ball maximum over square leg off Kieron Pollard to seal victory.

It was an innings for the ages, and Hetmyer’s knock will now stand among the most iconic in MLC history.

What’s Next

• Seattle Orcas will face the LA Knight Riders tomorrow evening, looking to build on their momentum.
• MI New York, though disappointed by the loss, will carry forward the positives as they prepare to take on the Texas Super Kings this Sunday at Grand Prairie.

Match Summary
Seattle Orcas beat MI New York by 3 wickets (0 balls remaining)

MI New York: 237/4 (Nicholas Pooran 108, Tajinder Singh 95, Kyle Mayers 2/34)
Seattle Orcas: 238/7 (Shimron Hetmyer 97*, Kyle Mayers 37, Sikandar Raza 30, Trent Boult 3/31)

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