Man of the Match Quinton de Kock‘s brilliant batting performance 88(50)* saw the Seattle Orcas beat the Texas Super Kings in a one-sided encounter as they became the first team to qualify in the Finals in MLC 2023. Quinton de Kock looked as if he was toying with the bowling unit as all variations were proving to be ineffective.
Opting to bat first The Texas Super Kings had a decent start in the powerplay courtesy Devon Conway 24(19) and Cody Chetty 24(21), but a middle order failure triggered a collapse as at one point they were rallying at 92-6. But a decent finish from Daniel Sams 26(25)* saw the TSK Finish at a below-par total of 125 in their 20 overs.
While chasing a modest target Quinton de Kock played a breathtaking innings of 88(50)* and ensured that the TSK never gained control of the match and the Orcas chased the target comfortably in 15 overs and with 9 wickets in hand.
DECENT START FOR THE TSK
Opting to bat first, TSK had a shaky start as the Orcas’ bowlers applied early pressure. Captain Faf du Plessis continued his poor form, departing early after scoring just 5 runs off 8 deliveries.
Devon Conway 24(19) and Cody Chetty 24(21) steadied the ship with a brief partnership, taking the score to 42 at the end of the powerplay, which was considered decent enough under the circumstances.
ORCAS’ BOWLERS DOMINATE THE TSK
The Orcas’ bowlers, though, had other plans. The wicket of Conway triggered a collapse as Mukesh Kumar, Cody Chetty, and Mitchell Santner fell in quick succession within just three overs. TSK’s hopes of posting a challenging total seemed to be slipping away. A partnership between Daniel Sams and David Miller offered a glimmer of hope, but Andrew Tye’s crucial wicket of Miller halted TSK’s momentum.
Despite Daniel Sams’ valiant efforts, the Tigers struggled to accelerate, ultimately posting a below-par score of 126/9 at the end of their 20 overs. The Orcas’ bowlers, particularly Andrew Tye, who ended with impressive figures, dominated the innings and gave their batting lineup a favorable target to chase.
QUINTON DE KOCK TOO HOT TO HANDLE FOR TSK BOWLING ATTACK
Chasing the relatively low target, the Orcas also faced an early hiccup as Nauman Anwar departed early. However, the in-form Shehan Jayasuriya joined forces with Quinton de Kock, determined to get their team over the line.
Quinton de Kock, known for his aggressive style of play, initially took a cautious approach, respecting the early wickets lost. But once he found his rhythm, he unleashed a dazzling array of shots, treating the TSK bowlers with utter disdain. His calculated assault left the opposition clueless and struggling to find answers.
In just 31 deliveries, Quinton de Kock reached his well-deserved half-century, putting the Orcas in a commanding position. His unbeaten knock of 88 runs off just 50 balls included an impressive tally of 10 boundaries and 4 maximums. The South African batsman’s sheer brilliance made the target look effortlessly achievable.
Shehan Jayasuriya, playing a pivotal supporting role, remained unbeaten on 31 runs, providing the much-needed stability at the other end. Together, the duo’s partnership bulldozed through the TSK bowling attack.
The Orcas cruised to victory, chasing down the target in just 15 overs with a resounding 9 wickets to spare. Quinton de Kock’s scintillating performance left the TSK in awe and cemented the Orcas’ place in the finals of the MLC in grand style.
WHAT NEXT FOR BOTH THE TEAMS
Texas Super Kings Will have to Forget this Loss Quickly as they will gear up to Face the MI New York in the Challenger Game on Saturday as one of them will join the Seattle Orcas for the Grand Finale. While The Orcas Await their Opponent Team in the Finale.
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