MLC 2026: Andries Gous and captain Steve Smith added 241 runs from 89 deliveries in a record chase against MI New York. (Sportzpics)
Australian batter Steve Smith led Washington Freedom to a record T20 pursuit, defeating defending champions MI New York in the Major League Cricket Eliminator at Oakland on Wednesday.
Chasing a target of 267 after Nicholas Pooran struck the fastest century in MLC history, Washington captain Smith and wicketkeeper Andries Gous (132 from 51 balls with 10 fours and 12 sixes) secured a six-wicket victory. After slumping to 10 for two in the first three overs, the pair posted an unbroken third-wicket partnership of 241 runs from 89 balls.
In a rematch of last season’s final won by MI New York, Smith finished unbeaten on 110 from 48 deliveries, including seven fours and nine sixes, guiding his side to the target in 18.4 overs.
