Rachin Ravindra spearheaded the Washington bowling attack, restricting the Unicorns to a modest total of 145. The table-toppers then chased down the target in just 15.3 overs, thanks to explosive batting by Travis Head and Glenn Maxwell.
Head and Maxwell put on an unbeaten 85-run partnership for the fourth wicket in just 6.4 overs, ensuring a swift and emphatic win for their team.
As it happened: MLC 2024 Qualifier
Head remained unbeaten on 77 off 44 balls, hitting three sixes and 10 fours. Maxwell provided ample support with a blistering 54 not out off 23 balls, including five sixes and four fours. The duo took Washington home with 27 balls to spare and seven wickets in hand.
Travis Head was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance. Reflecting on his innings, he said, “Feels nice, was stuck in the 50s for a bit so happy to get a match-winning score today. I don’t try to play deep too much; my job is just to get a fast start. A few wickets fell today, so I just tried to adjust. It has been a good wicket, and there was a bit of swing today, but when the ball swings, it gives you a chance to score. Ricky Ponting and Smith’s support has been great; they have left me alone and let me do my thing.”
Washington captain Steve Smith praised his team’s performance, noting the excellent chemistry and execution. “Good fun, we have a good bunch of guys who have gelled together quickly. Been a good campaign, helps when you’re winning along the way. Credit to us, we played really well. Nice to get to the big dance. We wanted to take wickets with the new ball, and the bowlers did well to keep them to 145, which was a bit under par. Travis and Maxi then played unbelievably well.”
After opting to bowl first, Washington’s bowlers delivered crucial early breakthroughs. Marco Jansen (3/46) and Saurabh Netravalkar (2/23) set the tone, while Rachin Ravindra’s exceptional spell of 4/11 dismantled the San Francisco batting lineup.
Despite a resilient 57 off 36 from Hassan Khan and a quick 26 off 19 from skipper Corey Anderson, the Unicorns were bowled out for 145 in 19 overs.
Corey Anderson acknowledged his team’s shortcomings but remained hopeful for the next opportunity. “Always tough when you lose 4 wickets early, we were probably 20-30 runs short. Head played a superb innings and Maxi came out and scored quick. We were short on all facets. They play hard cricket and were always going to take risks, but with risks come chances for us. Today was an off day for us, we need to pick ourselves quickly and get ready for tomorrow.”
San Francisco will now face the Texas Super Kings in the Challenger match on Saturday for another chance to reach the final and set up a rematch with Washington Freedom in the summit clash.