NEW DELHI: The fifth match of the 2024 Major League Cricket season between Washington Freedom and Texas Super Kings at Church Street Park in Morrisville on Tuesday was called off due to rain.
Washington, in pursuit of a challenging 204-run target, had reached 62 for 0 in just 4 overs with Travis Head and Steve Smith looking formidable at the crease before the downpour paused their innings.
As it happened: Washington Freedom vs Texas Super Kings
Travis Head had scored 32 runs off 12 balls, and Steve Smith was close behind with 26 runs off 12 balls when the rain interruption occurred. Despite nearly an hour-long wait for the weather to clear, match officials eventually called off the game, resulting in both teams sharing a point each from the rain-affected match.
This encounter was notable as it marked the first time any team had surpassed 200 runs this season and also the first occurrence of the 200-run total at Church Street Park.
Earlier, Texas Super Kings, led by skipper Faf du Plessis, set a formidable total of 203 for 5 in their 20 overs. Du Plessis scored a brilliant century off 58 balls, leading his team from the front. Devon Conway provided crucial support, amassing 39 runs off 26 balls, and together they built a 109-run partnership for the opening wicket.
Du Plessis was relentless against any loose deliveries, consistently punishing the Washington bowlers throughout his innings. Marcus Stoinis, despite nursing an injured right hand, contributed a vital 29 runs off 18 balls.
The Washington Freedom’s bowling and fielding were subpar, with several dropped catches and missed opportunities that allowed the Texas Super Kings to amass their substantial total.
While the rain ultimately denied what could have been an exciting finish, both teams will aim to build on their performances as the Major League Cricket season progresses.