Hetmyer's Last-Gasp Six Secures Historic MLC Chase for Seattle Orcas Against Pollard's MI New York

Image credit: MLC

Facing immense pressure, Hetmyer remained composed and launched a Kieron Pollard delivery over the boundary ropes, securing a dramatic win for his team.

Earlier in the match, MI New York set a formidable target of 237/4, largely thanks to a blistering, unbeaten century from their captain, Nicholas Pooran. Pooran smashed 108 runs off just 60 balls, including 7 fours and 8 sixes. He was well-supported by Tajinder Dhillon, who contributed a rapid 95 off 35 deliveries.

Despite the onslaught, the Orcas managed to regain some control through Gerald Coetzee and Kyle Mayers, who each claimed two wickets.

Seattle's innings began poorly, with Josh Brown and Shayan Jahangir falling early in the powerplay.

However, Kyle Mayers (37 off 20) and captain Sikandar Raza (30 off 9) launched a swift counter-attack, bringing the chase back on track. Heinrich Klaasen added a quickfire 26 off 13 balls before being dismissed by debutant Rushil Ugarkar.

That set the stage for Hetmyer’s remarkable innings.

With the required run rate escalating and wickets falling, Hetmyer shifted gears. He remained unbeaten with a sensational 97 off just 40 balls, smashing 5 fours and 9 towering sixes, resulting in an incredible strike rate of 242.50.

In the final over, with five runs needed for victory, Hetmyer seized the moment. Facing MI New York's captain, Kieron Pollard, Hetmyer skillfully flicked the ball over fine leg for a six, potentially the most significant of his T20 career. The Seattle camp erupted in celebration.

"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," said Hetmyer, who was named Player of the Match.

"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," he added.