MLC 2023: [WATCH] Sunil Narine Bowls A Stunner To Dismiss Matthew Short In The LAKR-WAF Clash

In a crucial clash between Los Angeles Knight Riders (LAKR) and Washington Freedom (WAF) in the Major League Cricket (MLC), Sunil Narine dismissed Matthew Short. The match took place at Morrisville, with LAKR desperate for a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Remarkably, this was the first time Narine had ever bowled to Short in his illustrious T20 career.

The pressure was on LAKR to defend their total of 175 runs, and the bowlers needed to step up. However, WAF’s batters were in fine form, and they were comfortably placed at 134/2 when the pivotal wicket of Short took place.

It was the final delivery of the 13th over that witnessed Narine’s magic on display. He unleashed a big turning off-spinner that bamboozled Short, penetrating his defence, and rattling his stumps.

Only a BEAUTY 😍like this could get Matthew Short out today!

WHAT A BALL by Sunil Narine!👏 pic.twitter.com/VZdnhvCd8i

— Major League Cricket (@MLCricket) July 21, 2023

This crucial breakthrough infused new life into what seemed like a one-sided contest, leaving WAF needing 42 runs to win off seven overs. Despite the setback, WAF continued their pursuit of the target. The opening partnership between Short and Andries Gous set the tone for their run-chase, posting a blistering 68 runs in just 32 deliveries.

Although wickets fell at regular intervals, WAF maintained their momentum from the powerplay and eventually secured victory with six wickets in hand and 11 balls to spare. Unfortunately for LAKR, this defeat sealed their elimination from the playoff race, marking their fourth consecutive loss in the inaugural MLC season. Notably, they are the only team in the six-team competition without a win so far.

Sunil Narine expressed his disappointment over the bowling lineup’s inability to defend their total effectively

During the post-match presentation, Narine remarked, “I thought 175 was a good total. But they capitalized in the powerplay and took it away. We tried everything but it didn’t happen. (On pitch) It was a bit more true when the lights came on, and we didn’t execute our plans, that’s cricket.”

Despite possessing a star-studded lineup comprising international superstars like Narine, Russell, Adam Zampa, Rilee Rossouw, and Jason Roy, LAKR’s maiden MLC season has been disappointingly lacklustre. In contrast, WAF bounced back strongly after an initial defeat and secured their second consecutive victory, placing them in the top three with two wins and one loss.

Their next challenge awaits against the San Francisco Unicorns at Morrisville on July 22. On the other hand, LAKR’s lacklustre season will conclude with their final game against the Seatle Orcas at the same venue on the following day.

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