Washington Freedom secure 30-run victory in run-fest
In one of the highest-scoring games of the 2026 Major League Cricket season, Washington Freedom defeated MI New York by 30 runs. The match saw records tumble and milestones achieved as both teams piled on runs at a breathtaking pace.
Kieron Pollard became the highest run-scorer in T20 cricket history, surpassing fellow West Indies legend Chris Gayle. Mitchell Owen also came close to breaking Gayle's record for the highest individual score in a T20 innings.
Despite Pollard's historic century, MI New York fell short while chasing Washington Freedom's imposing total of 245 for 5.
Mitchell Owen's record-breaking innings
After MI New York won the toss and opted to bowl, Washington Freedom's batting display was led by Australian opener Mitchell Owen. He smashed 155 off just 68 deliveries, hitting 11 fours and 13 sixes. His innings fell only a few runs short of Chris Gayle's unbeaten 175, the highest individual score in T20 cricket.
Steve Smith provided support with 27 off 21 balls, while Mark Chapman added a brisk 23 from 12 deliveries. MI New York's bowlers struggled, with Corbin Bosch the only bright spot, taking 1 for 41. Trent Boult had a difficult evening, conceding 50 runs in his four wicketless overs.
Kieron Pollard scripts history
MI New York's chase began disastrously. Glenn Maxwell produced a stunning direct-hit run out to remove Quinton de Kock for a duck in the opening over. Nicholas Pooran and Monank Patel soon followed, leaving MI New York at 34 for 3.
With the required rate soaring, Kieron Pollard stepped up. The veteran all-rounder played a sensational innings, scoring a century off 56 balls. During his knock, he surpassed Chris Gayle's tally of 14,562 runs to become the leading run-scorer in T20 cricket history.
Pollard's achievement is particularly notable as he built his reputation as a finisher, often batting at No. 6 or No. 7 and delivering quick runs under pressure, unlike many top-order T20 batters.
Corbin Bosch chipped in with 35 off 14 balls, and Romario Shepherd added 26, but the early collapse proved too much to overcome. Washington Freedom's bowlers held their nerve to secure a 30-run victory.
