Imad Wasim’s all-round performance in vain as San Francisco Unicorns knockout Seattle Orcas

The San Francisco Unicorns clinched a decisive six-wicket victory over the Seattle Orcas in the 18th match of Major League Cricket (MLC) 2024.

Chasing a manageable target of 153 runs, the Unicorns showcased remarkable batting skills, securing the win with 5.4 overs to spare. This triumph earned the Unicorns a spot in the playoffs, while the Orcas were eliminated from the tournament.

After being put to bat first, the Orcas struggled to establish partnerships. Quinton de Kock was the standout performer, scoring a brisk 62 runs off 33 balls, featuring 8 fours and 3 sixes.

Despite his efforts, the rest of the batting lineup faltered, with the Orcas reaching 116-7 in 16 overs. Imad Wasim added a quick 17 runs off 11 balls, including two fours, to help the Orcas post a total of 152/7 in their 20 overs.

For the Unicorns, pacers Pat Cummins and Haris Rauf were expensive, with Cummins conceding 45 runs in four overs and Rauf giving away 32 runs in his four overs without taking a wicket. However, Carmi le Roux (3/14) and Hassan Khan (3/5) were the standout bowlers.

In response, the Unicorns had a flying start with a blistering opening partnership between Finn Allen and Matthew Short.

Imad Wasim managed to break the partnership by dismissing Short for 19. The Pakistan all-rounder ended with figures of 1-20 in fours overs.

Allen, who was named Player of the Match, played a scintillating innings, scoring 77 runs off just 30 balls, including 8 fours and 6 sixes.

Despite losing wickets at regular intervals after Allen’s departure, contributions from Josh Inglis (24 not out) and Sherfane Rutherford (17 off 8) ensured that the Unicorns comfortably chased down the target in 14.2 overs, losing only four wickets.