Washington Freedom take on MI New York at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Oakland in the Cognizant Major League Cricket on 16 July. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:00 AM IST, following a 2:30 AM UK start. With the play-offs approaching, this is a significant clash between two of Major League Cricket’s strongest franchises. Washington Freedom have enjoyed another impressive campaign built around a balanced squad, while MI New York will be looking to strengthen their position with a statement victory. The latest squads and player availability have been verified ahead of this fixture.
Form Guide
Washington Freedom
Washington Freedom have been one of the competition’s most consistent sides, combining explosive batting with disciplined bowling. Glenn Maxwell continues to lead an experienced group, while Rachin Ravindra has provided valuable runs at the top of the order. The bowling attack, spearheaded by Saurabh Netravalkar and Lockie Ferguson, has consistently restricted opposition batting line-ups during the powerplay and at the death.
- Balanced squad featuring proven international performers.
- Strong bowling attack capable of defending competitive totals.
- Excellent recent form heading into the final stages of the league.
MI New York
MI New York possess one of the tournament’s most dangerous batting units, led by Nicholas Pooran and Quinton de Kock. Their experienced pace attack has also improved as the competition has progressed, while Kieron Pollard continues to provide invaluable leadership and finishing ability. Consistency has occasionally been an issue, but their match-winning potential is unquestionable.
- Powerful top and middle order capable of posting imposing totals.
- Experienced all-rounders provide excellent squad depth.
- Bowling attack has improved throughout the tournament.
Key Players
Washington Freedom
- Glenn Maxwell – The captain remains one of the world’s premier T20 all-rounders and a genuine match-winner.
- Rachin Ravindra – A stylish top-order batter capable of anchoring or accelerating an innings.
- Saurabh Netravalkar – The left-arm seamer continues to provide crucial wickets with the new ball.
MI New York
- Nicholas Pooran – One of the most destructive T20 batters in world cricket and MI New York’s biggest batting threat.
- Quinton de Kock – An experienced opener capable of dominating the powerplay.
- Trent Boult – The left-arm quick remains a consistent wicket-taking threat with the new ball.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum has produced good batting wickets throughout the Major League Cricket season, offering true bounce and a quick outfield. Fast bowlers who utilise variations have generally enjoyed the most success during the closing overs, while the larger boundaries reward disciplined bowling. A first-innings score in the region of 180–190 should provide a competitive total.
Washington Freedom vs MI New York – Prediction
This promises to be one of the highest-quality fixtures of the MLC round. MI New York possess enough batting power to challenge any side, but Washington Freedom’s greater consistency and well-balanced squad give them a slight edge. If Glenn Maxwell delivers another influential all-round performance and Rachin Ravindra provides a solid platform, Washington should have enough quality to secure victory. MI New York will rely heavily on Nicholas Pooran and Trent Boult to keep them firmly in contention.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Glenn Maxwell – A premium fantasy captain thanks to his all-round contributions.
- Nicholas Pooran – A destructive batting option capable of winning matches.
- Rachin Ravindra – Excellent all-round fantasy value.
