LAUDERHILL, Fla. — The Seattle Orcas missed a key opportunity to stay ahead in the race for the final playoff spot in Major League Cricket 2025, falling to the Washington Freedom by eight wickets on July 4.

Seattle’s three-game winning streak came to a halt after they were bowled out for just 82 runs. Washington made light work of the chase, cruising to victory in just 9.2 overs.

After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, the Freedom’s attack delivered a clinical performance. Glenn Maxwell, Saurabh Netravalkar, and Jack Edwards each claimed three wickets, dismantling a Seattle batting order that never found momentum.

The lone bright spot for the Seattle Orcas came from Heinrich Klaasen, who returned to form with a defiant 48, including several of his trademark sixes. However, with no real support at the other end, his efforts weren’t nearly enough.

In response, Washington openers Rachin Ravindra (32 off 23) and Mukhtar Ahmed (36 not out off 21) made the modest target look effortless. Sikandar Raza produced a gem to dismiss Mitch Owen early, and Jasdeep Singh, returning from injury, chipped in with a wicket—but it was far too little, too late.

Seattle’s recent hero, Shimron Hetmyer, along with Shayan Jahangir, had an off-day with the bat, leaving Klaasen to wage a solo battle in a game the Orcas will want to forget quickly.

They won’t have much time to dwell on it either. Seattle faces the Texas Super Kings on July 5 in what is now a must-win contest to keep their playoff hopes alive. Texas also has plenty at stake, with a potential top-two finish—and the playoff safety net that comes with it—on the line.

Match Summary:
Washington Freedom beat Seattle Orcas by 8 wickets

Seattle Orcas — 82 all out in 17.4 overs
Heinrich Klaasen 48; Glenn Maxwell 3-12

Washington Freedom — 86/2 in 9.2 overs
Mukhtar Ahmed 36*; Sikandar Raza 1-18