Hetmyer's Last-Gasp Six Stuns Pollard, Seals Record-Breaking MLC Chase for Seattle Orcas

Shimron Hetmyer delivered a stunning performance, smashing a last-ball six to secure a thrilling three-wicket victory for the Seattle Orcas over MI New York in a record-breaking chase in the 2025 Major League Cricket (MLC). The Orcas successfully chased down a massive target of 238, the highest in MLC history, thanks to Hetmyer's incredible hitting under pressure.

MI New York had earlier set a formidable target of 237/4, powered by Nicholas Pooran's explosive, unbeaten 108 off just 60 balls, decorated with 7 fours and 8 sixes. Tajinder Dhillon provided valuable support with a rapid 95 off 35 deliveries.

Despite the onslaught, the Orcas bowlers, Gerald Coetzee and Kyle Mayers, managed to grab two wickets each, momentarily slowing down the scoring.

The Seattle Orcas' chase began shakily, losing Josh Brown and Shayan Jahangir early in the powerplay. However, Kyle Mayers (37 off 20) and captain Sikandar Raza (30 off 9) launched a counter-attack, injecting much-needed momentum into the innings. Heinrich Klaasen contributed a quickfire 26 off 13 balls before falling to Rushil Ugarkar.

With the required run rate escalating and wickets falling, Hetmyer took charge, unleashing an unbeaten 97 off a mere 40 deliveries. His innings included 5 fours and 9 towering sixes, achieving an astonishing strike rate of 242.50.

The game reached its climax on the final ball, with five runs needed for victory. Hetmyer faced Kieron Pollard, expertly maneuvering himself to flick the ball over fine leg for a six, sparking wild celebrations within the Seattle Orcas camp. This shot could potentially be remembered as the most crucial six of his T20 career.

"This one is one of the best, because our backs were against the wall and I'm still grimacing over the last game where we couldn't cross the line," said Hetmyer, who was named Player of the Match.

He added, "Today is one of those days, where I went with a clear mind and wanted to take the game as deep as possible. That (injury) actually gave me a little bit of help, because I didn't want to run much."