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In a match curtailed by rain, the San Francisco Unicorns emerged victorious over the Washington Freedom by six wickets in the Major League Cricket at Dallas on Sunday. The Unicorns chased down a revised target of 177 runs in 13.4 overs, with Sanjay Krishnamurthi’s unbeaten 79 being the cornerstone of their chase. However, the highlight of the match was undoubtedly Akeal Hosein’s dismissal of Finn Allen for a golden duck.
Akil Hossein’s deadly delivery
While Krishnamurthi’s inning was undoubtedly crucial, Hosein’s dismissal of Finn captured everyone’s attention. Allen, known for his aggressive batting, came to the crease with high expectations. However, Hosein had other plans.
The left-arm spinner delivered a skiddy delivery that came into the right-hander. Allen, looking to pull, was deceived by the pace and trajectory of the ball. The delivery crashed into the middle stump, leaving Allen stunned and Washington’s dugout in jubilation.
Hosein’s dismissal of Allen was a crucial breakthrough for Washington. It put a dent in the Unicorns’ batting lineup and gave the Freedoms a much-needed early advantage. The wicket also showcased Hossein’s skill and ability to deliver under pressure.
Here’s the video:
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San Francisco Unicorns ends the winning streak of Washington Freedom
The Freedom, batting first, managed to post a respectable total of 174 runs for the loss of three wickets in their allotted 15.3 overs. Steve Smith and Travis Head both contributed half-centuries, but the innings lacked the momentum they needed. Corey Anderson was the pick of the Unicorns’ bowlers, finishing with figures of 2 for 20.
The Unicorns’ chase started off under immense pressure, losing openers James Frazer-Mcgirk and Allen, both early in the second innings, with the sheer determination and intent of Josh Inglis and Krishnamurthi putting on a 70-run stand. Inglis made a quickfire 45 before being dismissed, but Krishnamurthi continued his assault on the Freedom bowlers. He remained unbeaten on 79, guiding his team to victory with four balls to spare.
The victory for the Unicorns was a significant one, as it helped them consolidate their position in the points table. The Freedom, on the other hand, will be disappointed with their performance and will need to regroup for their next match as it ended the winning streak for them facing their first loss of the tournament.
