The Seattle Orcas have been an entertaining team to watch in the 2025 Major League Cricket season. The last time the Orcas hit the field, they pulled off a hard-fought 4-wicket win against the San Francisco Unicorns. The Orcas have played with a clear objective in mind, and they have shown resilience and resourcefulness with some excellent batting. This match against the Washington Freedom in the 26th Match gives them a chance to concentrate on their performance while fortifying for the playoffs. The Washington Freedom will be a bouncy opponent, and for the last two matches for the Orcas, they will need to bring out their first-choice XI to get it done once.
Openers
Seattle’s top order has displayed a combination of aggression and stability. For instance, Shayan Jahangir (open in last game) is an integral player who made 36 from 27 balls with a strike rate of 133.33, which established a good starting platform with brisk intent. Jahangir hit three fours and two sixes to put the pressure on bowlers to be aggressive with fair intent in the first 6.
Meanwhile, Steven Taylor (who was out for a duck last game doesn’t help, has T20 experience and class with the bat, so he shouldn’t be overlooked. Both the openers have contrasting styles, which will be hard for the opposition bowlers to contend with. Jahangir, with aggressive intent as well as Taylor’s experience, can contribute to laying a foundation for Seattle.
Middle Order
Shimron Hetmyer, the previous match MVP, is also at the top of the Orca’s middle order. Under pressure, Hetmyer blasted 78 not out from 37 balls, hitting four fours and seven sixes in a commanding performance. Hetmyer can inject pace into an innings and finish matches, and that will be brilliant for the Orcas.
Then there is the captain, Sikandar Raza, who is dependable and consistent. Raza only scored 11 runs in the previous match, but if the Orcas start struggling and enter a precarious phase while batting, Raza’s experience and leadership will be vital. Hetmyer and Raza are the backbone of the Orcas’ batting lineup.
All-Rounders
Seattle’s all-rounders are extremely valuable players in all areas of batting and bowling. Kyle Mayers only scored 3 runs in the last game but has provided quick runs down the order fairly consistently, along with bowling useful overs. Aaron Jones also provides all-round balance with and in the lower middle order; he can hit big and can also take important wickets. Their all-around abilities provide the option Seattle needs, particularly in tough situations when run and wicket are life.
Bowlers
With the ball, Xavier Bartlett was sensational against San Francisco, grabbing 2 for 24 off his 4 overs with a respectable economy of 6.00. His consistent accuracy in line and length keeps him dangerous during the powerplay and closing stages.
Brody Couch also bowled economically, giving up just 23 runs off 4 overs. Couch did not take any wickets, but his accuracy built pressure. Both bowlers can break partnerships and cut down runs against a batting lineup like the Washington Freedom.
The obvious match-winners for the Seattle Orcas are Shimron Hetmyer’s ferocious hitting, Sikandar Raza’s experience, stability, and leadership, incisive bowling from Bartlett, and the all-round capabilities of Kyle Mayers and Aaron Jones. With such a combination of power, experience, and disciplined bowling, the Orcas look like a formidable team. Ahead of facing the Washington Freedom in the 26th match of a busy last week of the MLC 2025, fans can expect a very competitive match as Seattle looks to continue their winning momentum of late.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
From Debutant to Dependable: How Beau Webster Became Australia’s Rescue Man
Indian Cricketers Who Lost Their Spot After Just One Test
IPL Teams That Could Unlock Jamie Smith’s T20 Magic in 2026
OTD Ajanatha Mendis heroics denied India Asia Cup
