The Seattle Orcas finally have something to celebrate in MLC 2025. After five straight defeats, a mid-season captaincy change and the sacking of their head coach - the struggling franchise pulled off a sensational last-ball win over MI New York.
They chased a record 238 runs to seal their first win of the season. This high-scoring thriller was also Seattle's first game since naming Sikandar Raza as captain and parting ways with head coach Matthew Mott. And it turned out to be a night to remember.
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What happened in the MLC game between MI New York and Seattle Orcas?
Set 238 to win, Seattle Orcas needed six runs off the final delivery. Shimron Hetmyer - who had battled through a groin issue - got on one knee and launched Kieron Pollard's full toss over square leg to complete an incredible three-wicket win.
Hetmyer remained unbeaten on 97 off 39 balls. Seattle Orcas' chase was after MI New York posted 237 for 4 - thanks to Nicholas Pooran's unbeaten 108 and a 95 from Tajinder Singh.
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Was the leadership change the spark Seattle Orcas needed?
Seattle entered the match after a leadership overhaul. Heinrich Klaasen stepped down from captaincy to focus on his batting while coach Mott was relieved of his duties due to "differences in coaching and management strategies."
Sikandar Raza was backed to lead the side owing to his international experience. The new captain had an immediate impact.
His innings of 30 runs off 9 balls set the momentum in the chase. And the side carried that momentum throughout.
What's next for Seattle Orcas?
Seattle's win not only ends their losing streak but also offers a much-needed spark heading into the second half of the season. Whether this marks the beginning of a turnaround remains to be seen.
But for now, they have finally got their season going.