By Tim Douglas 
MI New York Soar into MLC 2025 Final with Commanding Win Over Texas Super Kings
In a contest packed with drama, experience prevailed as Kieron Pollard and Nicholas Pooran powered MI New York to a dominant 7-wicket victory over Texas Super Kings, securing a spot in the Major League Cricket 2025 Final against Washington Freedom.
Set a challenging target of 167, MI New York found themselves under pressure midway through the chase. But once Pollard walked to the crease, momentum shifted drastically. Launching a massive 328-foot six off the very first delivery he faced, Pollard signaled his intent with trademark ferocity. His late-innings blitz, particularly the 22-run carnage off Zia-ul-Haq in the 17th over, deflated any remaining Super Kings resistance.
Pooran Anchors, Pollard Destroys
Skipper Nicholas Pooran, who had struggled for consistency this season, rose to the occasion. After the early dismissals of Quinton de Kock and Michael Bracewell, Pooran held the innings together with an intelligent, well-paced knock. Teaming up first with Monank Patel and later forging a match-winning 89-run unbeaten partnership with Pollard, the left-hander showcased leadership and composure when it mattered most.
Though Noor Ahmad managed to remove Patel to give TSK a flicker of hope, it was quickly extinguished as Pollard’s fireworks flattened any comeback attempts. MI chased down the target in 19 overs, comfortably sealing their berth in Sunday’s final.
TSK Falter Despite Hosein’s Heroics
Earlier in the evening, Pooran’s decision to field first paid off. The Super Kings were reduced to 85/5, with Tristan Luus leading the charge with 3/35. Although Faf du Plessis offered brief resistance, a brilliant spell from Luus and tight fielding had TSK reeling.
However, Akeal Hosein emerged as an unlikely savior with a scintillating 50 off 32 balls, ably supported by Donovan Ferreira’s aggressive 32. Their late recovery added valuable runs, guiding TSK to 166/5, which looked competitive—until Pollard and Pooran took control.
Momentum on MI’s Side Ahead of MLC Final
After a lukewarm league stage, MI New York have turned the tide at just the right time, peaking in the playoffs with back-to-back wins. Their clash against Washington Freedom on Sunday promises fireworks, as they chase their maiden MLC title.
Zainab Shafiq