MLC 2023 Final : In a thrilling finale at Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas, MI New York emerged victorious in the inaugural Major League Cricket 2023 tournament by defeating Seattle Orcas. The T20 franchise cricket league witnessed an exciting showdown between six teams, with MI New York and Seattle Orcas making it to the MLC 2023 final.
Winning the toss, MI New York’s skipper, Nicholas Pooran, chose to bowl first. Seattle Orcas put up a competitive total of 183/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Quinton de Kock, the wicketkeeper-batsman for Seattle Orcas, was the top scorer with a brilliant knock of 87 off just 52 balls, comprising nine fours and four sixes at a strike rate of 167.31. However, Rashid Khan and Trent Boult shined with the ball, taking three wickets each. Rashid Khan’s figures of 3/9 in four overs with an economy of 2.20 were particularly impressive.
Chasing 184 for victory in the final was no easy task, especially under pressure. MI New York faced an early setback with opener Steven Taylor getting out for a duck. But the team found a savior in their captain, Nicholas Pooran. The left-handed wicketkeeper-batsman put on an astounding show, smashing an unbeaten 137 off just 55 deliveries.
Pooran’s innings included 10 fours and 13 sixes, showcasing his incredible hitting abilities at a remarkable strike rate of 249.09. MI New York achieved the target in just 16 overs with seven wickets to spare, securing the title in style on July 30, Sunday. Despite Seattle Orcas’ best efforts to halt Pooran’s onslaught, he remained unstoppable, guiding his team to a crucial victory.
Watch
For his scintillating batting masterclass in the MLC 2023 final, Nicholas Pooran deservedly received the Player of the Match award. In the post-match presentation, he expressed his pride in the team’s efforts, especially in the absence of their captain and a few key players. Pooran credited the team’s belief and preparation for the big moment, praising the good batting wicket they had anticipated.
He mentioned his confidence and dedication to execute his skills, which he had been honing for the past 5-6 years. The victory was an emotional and special moment for Pooran, who extended his gratitude to all the fans and supporters for their unwavering support.
MI New York’s triumph in the inaugural MLC 2023 tournament will undoubtedly go down in history, and Nicholas Pooran’s remarkable innings will be remembered as one of the finest performances in T20 franchise cricket.