The San Francisco Unicorns jumped to the top spot in the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 standings in confidence, producing a batting performance to defeat the Washington Freedom by eight wickets and significantly improve their Net Run Rate.Chasing a tough target of 191, the Unicorns raced to 193/2 in just 15.1 overs, leapfrogging the Seattle Orcas, who had risen to the summit earlier in the day. The streak’s success further cemented San Francisco’s reputation as one of the league’s top contenders.The chase was built around a 102-run opening partnership between Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Finn Allenwho disrupted the War of Independence from the beginning.Pretorius smashed 66 off just 26 balls, while Allen hit 45 off 18 balls as the duo finished the tournament in the Powerplay.
Pretorius appreciates the support from management
Named Player of the Match, Pretorius said the trust shown in him by the referees was key to his stability.“I think it all comes down to the management helping you, always saying good things and encouraging you to have a positive attitude,” he said.The young opener revealed that he went into the game knowing the record of fifty runs and celebrated reaching the milestone in just 16 balls.“I wanted to get the record after the first over, so, yeah, I’m glad I could hit the last six,” he said after the 16-ball.Pretorius added that thinking better than recklessly attacking has changed his batting.“I think it can go both ways, like carelessness. I fell into that trap… Now I just support my options and stay within your game plan, read the conditions and try to see what I think is important as an opening shot,” he added.He also admitted that the surface is an illusion.“On wickets like this, to be a little bit faster, just to be clear and support your options and give 100%. That’s my attitude going into every game,” he said.The 190th right proves it better belowEarlier, Washington Freedom posted what looked like a competitive 190/4 after Andries Gous set up the innings with an unbeaten 83 off 50 balls, while Mitchell Owen hit a quick 39 at the top.Nikhil Chaudhary’s 32-year-old from 19 games added to the momentum, but the Freedom players failed to capitalize on the two options and repeatedly conceded scoring opportunities.Three fallen fish added to their woes as the Unicorns made light work of the chase.Asked who hit the biggest sixes between him and Allen, Pretorius laughed before replying: “Probably Finn.”With the decisive win, San Francisco not only ended its season-high rushing streak but also moved back to the top of the MLC standings.