In Dallas, Texas on July 29, 2024, Washington Freedom clinched the Cognizant Major League Cricket 2024 title with an impressive 96-run win over the San Francisco Unicorns in the Championship final held at Grand Prairie Stadium on Sunday.
Washington Freedom established a formidable target of 208, led by outstanding performances from Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell. The Unicorns’ attempt to chase the target faltered early on. In the third over, Jake Fraser-McGurk (3) was sent back to the pavilion, followed by a crucial dismissal of Finn Allen (13) by Marco Jansen, who had previously scored a century. At 30/3, the Unicorns were in a precarious position.
As the middle order crumbled, with Sherfane Rutherford (4) and Josh Inglis (18) making quick exits, the hope for a dramatic comeback faded. Andrew Tye, who was included in the final lineup, grabbed two crucial wickets, tightening the grip on the Unicorns. Rachin Ravindra then sealed the deal with a remarkable bowling spell, finishing with figures of 3/23.
At the start of the game, Washington Freedom endured an early loss with Travis Head (9) departing. Steve Smith (88) then took charge, delivering a masterful innings. With support from Andries Gous (21), Smith held the innings together before departing along with Gous and Rachin Ravindra (11), without significant contributions. Undeterred, Smith unleashed a series of boundaries.
Glenn Maxwell (40) partnered with Smith, propelling Washington Freedom beyond the reach of the Unicorns with their aggressive approach. A memorable over saw Drysdale concede 28 runs as Smith and Maxwell wreaked havoc, setting up a colossal total.
Following the dismissals of Smith and Maxwell, Mukhtar Ahmed (19*) chipped in with quick runs, pushing the total past the 200-mark. Washington Freedom concluded their innings at 208, a record total for a final.
Image Source: Washington Freedom @ Instagram
