Major League Cricket

Washington Freedom vs Seattle Orcas 26th T20 Prediction, Dream11 Team, Playing XI, Pitch Report

As the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 enters its crucial phase, the battle for the final playoff spot intensifies. The 26th match of the tournament sees Seattle Orcas face Washington Freedom in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. With three teams already qualifying for the playoffs, the fourth and final berth is up for grabs, making this clash vital for both sides. While Washington Freedom has had a stellar season so far with six wins from eight games, Seattle Orcas must win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Having lost to Washington earlier in the tournament, the Orcas will look to bounce back under pressure. Both teams come into this game with contrasting form — Washington coming off a loss to Texas Super Kings, while Seattle has won three consecutive matches.

Match Details

MatchWashington Freedom vs Seattle Orcas (Match 26)
Date & TimeJune 14, 2025
VenueCentral Broward Regional Park Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida
FormatT20
Live StreamingESPNcricinfo, Willow TV

Team Previews

Washington Freedom Preview

Glenn Maxwell’s Washington Freedom has been one of the most consistent teams in MLC 2025, securing six wins out of eight games. Despite suffering a 43-run defeat against Texas Super Kings in their last outing, the team remains strong in all departments. Mitchell Owen and Rachin Ravindra have provided solid starts at the top, while Andries Gous, Glenn Phillips, and Maxwell himself add firepower in the middle order. In the bowling department, Saurabh Netravalkar and Lockie Ferguson are key wicket-takers, and Jack Edwards and Mitchell Owen provide valuable support with the ball. The side also benefits from all-round contributions from Ian Holland and Ravindra. With a strong batting lineup and a balanced attack, Washington enters this match as firm favorites.

Seattle Orcas Preview

Sikandar Raza-led Seattle Orcas have made a remarkable turnaround after a shaky start to the tournament. Winning their last three matches, including a four-wicket victory over San Francisco Unicorns, they’ve reignited their playoff hopes. However, they lost their previous encounter against Washington Freedom, which could affect their morale. Steven Taylor and Shayan Jahangir need to deliver a stable opening stand, followed by Kyle Mayers anchoring the innings. Heinrich Klaasen and Aaron Jones bring explosive finishing power. In bowling, Harmeet Singh and Gerald Coetzee lead the pace attack, supported by Ayan Desai and Waqar Salamkheil. Though the team has improved, inconsistency in batting and lack of depth in bowling remain concerns. They must overcome mental barriers to beat a confident Washington side.

Favourite Team to Win Today’s Match

Washington FreedomWashington has a superior record against Seattle and a more balanced squad. Their batting depth, led by Glenn Phillips and Glenn Maxwell, gives them an edge. Saurabh Netravalkar and Lockie Ferguson offer pace and experience, complemented by effective spin options. Although they lost their last game, their overall consistency and confidence make them strong favorites. Seattle needs everything to go right to pull off an upset.

Fantasy Team XI (Recommended Lineup)

Mitchell OwenOpening BatsmanWashington FreedomConsistent opener; good form and partnership potential
Rachin RavindraAll-RounderWashington FreedomBatting flair + useful part-time spin
Andries GousWicket-KeeperWashington FreedomReliable batter in middle order
Glenn PhillipsBatterWashington FreedomExplosive hitter, especially in death overs
Kyle MayersAll-RounderSeattle OrcasCan change the game with bat or ball
Sikandar RazaCaptainSeattle OrcasExperienced leader, handy lower-order batsman
Heinrich KlaasenBatterSeattle OrcasAggressive finisher
Harmeet SinghBowlerSeattle OrcasKey wicket-taking threat
Saurabh NetravalkarBowlerWashington FreedomTop-class pacer, economical and strikes early
Lockie FergusonBowlerWashington FreedomFast bowler with experience, can trouble batters
Ayan DesaiBowlerSeattle OrcasMiddle-over control bowler

Explanation:
This fantasy XI combines top performers from both teams. Mitchell Owen and Glenn Phillips are aggressive openers who can set the tone. Andries Gous provides stability in the middle, while Kyle Mayers and Sikandar Raza offer all-round value. The bowling trio of Saurabh Netravalkar, Harmeet Singh, and Lockie Ferguson brings pace and variety. Heinrich Klaasen and Heinrich Klaasen are included for late-innings fireworks.

Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions

CaptainGlenn PhillipsExplosive batter, scores quickly, ideal for multiplier points
Vice-CaptainKyle MayersAll-round impact, capable of scoring big runs and taking key wickets

Players to Avoid in Fantasy Teams

Obus PienaarStruggles for form and consistency; not reliable for fantasy points
Shayan JahangirInconsistent performer; lacks match-winning ability

Team Squads

Washington Freedom Squad

Glenn Maxwell (c), Mitchell Owen, Rachin Ravindra, Andries Gous (wk), Jack Edwards, Glenn Phillips, Obus Pienaar, Mukhtar Ahmed, Ian Holland, Saurabh Netravalkar, Lockie Ferguson

Seattle Orcas Squad

Sikandar Raza (c), Shayan Jahangir (wk), Aaron Jones, Kyle Mayers, Heinrich Klaasen, Steven Taylor, Shimron Hetmyer, Gerald Coetzee, Harmeet Singh, Ayan Desai, Waqar Salamkheil

Probable Playing XI

Mitchell OwenSteven Taylor
Rachin RavindraShayan Jahangir (wk)
Andries Gous (wk)Aaron Jones
Glenn PhillipsKyle Mayers
Jack EdwardsHeinrich Klaasen
Glenn Maxwell (c)Shimron Hetmyer
Obus PienaarSikandar Raza (c)
Mukhtar AhmedGerald Coetzee
Ian HollandHarmeet Singh
Saurabh NetravalkarAyan Desai
Lockie FergusonWaqar Salamkheil

Pitch Report

The pitch at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium favors bowlers in the initial overs due to movement and slower nature. Spinners also get assistance later on. Chasing seems slightly advantageous as the pitch gets easier to bat on. First-innings average score is around 165, but teams aim to post 190+ if possible.

Toss Prediction

The toss is expected to be won by Washington Freedom , and based on conditions, they might opt to bowl first due to overcast skies and difficult early batting conditions.

Winner Prediction

Despite Seattle Orcas’ recent resurgence, Washington Freedom’s superior head-to-head record, better team balance, and consistent performance make them the clear favorites. Washington Freedom to win this match and secure a strong position ahead of the playoffs.

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About Suraj Mahto

Suraj Kumar Mahto is currently working as a freelance content writer and is always interested in a challenge. Reach out to t20cricketprediction@gmail.com to connect!

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