Hetmyer's Last-Ball Heroics Propel Seattle Orcas to Record-Breaking MLC Chase

Hetmyer's Last-Ball Six Seals Thrilling Record Chase for Seattle Orcas

Shimron Hetmyer delivered a stunning performance, smashing a last-ball six to secure a dramatic three-wicket victory for the Seattle Orcas against MI New York in the 2025 Major League Cricket (MLC). This victory marked the Orcas' first win of the season, achieved through the highest successful run chase in MLC history.

Image credit: MLC

The Orcas were chasing a formidable target of 238 set by MI New York. Hetmyer's composure and explosive hitting under pressure proved to be the difference, as he launched Kieron Pollard's final delivery over the boundary to clinch the win.

Earlier in the match, MI New York had set a high bar, posting an impressive 237/4. Captain Nicholas Pooran led the charge with an unbeaten 108 off just 60 balls, decorated with 7 fours and 8 sixes. He received excellent support from Tajinder Dhillon, who contributed a rapid 95 off 35 deliveries.

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

Seattle's chase began shakily, with Josh Brown and Shayan Jahangir falling early. However, Kyle Mayers (37 off 20) and captain Sikandar Raza (30 off 9) initiated a swift counter-attack to revitalize the innings. Heinrich Klaasen then added a quickfire 26 off 13 balls before being dismissed by Rushil Ugarkar.

This set the stage for Hetmyer's remarkable innings.

With the required run rate increasing and wickets falling, Hetmyer shifted gears, unleashing an unbeaten 97 off a mere 40 deliveries. His innings included 5 fours and 9 towering sixes, resulting in an astounding strike rate of 242.50.

The game reached its climax on the final ball, with five runs needed for victory. Hetmyer faced Kieron Pollard, anticipated the line, and executed a brilliant flick over fine leg for a six. This shot will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most significant sixes of his T20 career, sparking jubilant scenes in the Seattle Orcas camp.

Hetmyer, who was named Player of the Match, commented after the game: "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. 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."