MLC: LA Knight Riders clinch maiden title with one-run win over Freedom
The Los Angeles Knight Riders secured their first Major League Cricket title by defeating Washington Freedom by one run in a dramatic final. Despite a late surge from Obus Pienaar, the Knight Riders' bowling attack held firm to clinch the victory.
Why it matters
The growth of Major League Cricket represents the expansion of the sport into the US market, attracting international interest.
NEW DELHI: The Los Angeles Knight Riders held their nerve in a breathtaking final over to beat Washington Freedom by one run and win their maiden Major League Cricket (MLC) title at the Oakland Coliseum in California, California on Saturday.Needing 14 runs off the final over, Washington looked favourites after Obus Pienaar smashed the first ball for six. But Shadley van Schalkwyk produced three wickets in the last five deliveries, including a run-out off the final ball, to spark wild celebrations as the Knight Riders became MLC's newest champions.MI New York won the inaugural title in 2023 and again in 2025, while Washington Freedom lifted the trophy in 2024.Knight Riders post 164Washington Freedom had won the toss and elected to bowl.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in