Washington Freedom set highest successful T20 run chase to reach MLC 2026 final
The Major League Cricket side surpassed the previous benchmark set by Punjab Kings in the IPL 2024 to secure a spot in the championship.
Washington Freedom have secured their place in the Major League Cricket 2026 final after defeating MI New York in the Eliminator match at Oakland Coliseum. The victory established a new world record for the highest successful run chase in men’s T20 cricket, surpassing the previous benchmark set during the IPL 2024.
MI New York posted a formidable total of 266/9 in their 20 overs, anchored by a rapid century from Nicholas Pooran and a powerful contribution from Kieron Pollard. Pooran scored 106 off 33 balls, while Pollard added 64 off 25 deliveries, setting a target that appeared insurmountable for the chasing side.
Washington Freedom faced a significant early challenge, collapsing to 10/2 during their chase. However, the innings was transformed by a record-breaking 231-run partnership between Steve Smith and Andries Gous. Smith remained unbeaten on 110 off 48 balls, including nine sixes, marking his fastest T20 century.
Gous complemented the effort with a destructive 132 off 51 balls. The duo’s combined effort allowed Washington Freedom to reach 270/4 in just 18.4 overs, winning by six wickets and breaking the previous record of 265/5 set by Punjab Kings against Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2024.
The performance highlighted the escalating competitive standards within Major League Cricket, as Washington Freedom overcame a precarious position to deliver a historic chase. The win sends the team into the MLC 2026 final, having rewritten the record books in the process.
