Predicting Seattle Orcas’s Playing XI for the 7th Match of MLC 2025

As the Seattle Orcas prepare for their 7th game of the MLC 2025, they are feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. The Orcas were knocked back, having been thrashed by the Washington Freedom, who chased down 146, taking only 6.3 overs and 5 wickets to do so. There were a few glimpses of brilliance provided by Orcas, fueled by the performance of some of their top order and a couple of bowlers who would otherwise perform in their upcoming match for the Gibraltar tournament.

Openers

Once again, David Warner and Kyle Mayers look like the likely openers for the Orcas. The veteran Australian made a great start, scoring a confident 31 off 17 balls, including four boundaries and one six. He was great to have at the top, with his intention from the start, combined with his experience in high-pressure leagues this season, made him an absolute asset at the top.

Mayers matched Warner’s tempo with his own aggressive 27 off 17 balls. Three clean hits over the ropes say it all—he can dominate bowlers of any variety. Although they both fell earlier than Seattle would have liked, they set the tone with their partnership of 60 in just over five overs. Expect this duo to open once again, looking to bat deeper and make the most of their starts.

Middle Order

Heinrich Klaasen, the captain and wicketkeeper, will likely be the anchor in the middle order. He scored 17 off 13 and was looking reassuring, but fell at a pivotal time. Klaasen not only plays a prominent role with the bat, but he is also a leader under pressure, and his glovework is top-class behind the stumps. If he can bat longer than 20-25 balls, he can shift the momentum so fast.

Sikandar Raza adds great value in the middle order even after batting slowly for 15 off 26. Although his innings was not fluent in the last match, Raza is not a player who fears pressure and can navigate through difficult phases with the bat. With his pedigree of being a match-winner in franchise T20 leagues around the world, Seattle will be hoping, if not expecting, him to bounce back and hold the middle together.

All-Rounders 

Cameron Gannon and Harmeet Singh emerged as dependable utility-all-rounders in the last match. Gannon notched 8 runs in a hurry and chipped in with a wicket in his two overs, though his two overs also went for 36 runs. Gannon can hit sixes down the order and deliver some breakthroughs, which gives the side balance.

Harmeet Singh had a forgettable outing with the bat (out for a duck), but his left-arm spin did provide a breakthrough when it removed a dangerous Glenn Phillips. Singh went for only 18 in his two overs and looked like one of the few bowlers who had some control and could build pressure. Both players add depth and versatility to the Orcas XI – exactly what is needed in T20.

Bowlers 

Waqar Salamkheil was Seattle’s most effective bowler in the last match. The chinaman spinner from Afghanistan took two wickets, including the in-form Andries Gous, and Jack Edwards. His economy rate of 7.71 was staggering given the run-scoring from their attacking batters. Salamkheil has variations and flight to trouble any side on a spinning deck!

We also have to acknowledge Obed McCoy’s neat three overs, during which he only conceded 20 runs and took the big wicket of Rachin Ravindra. The left-arm pacer bowled with control and used his slower balls well, both things that will be key against sides with explosive top orders.

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.

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