MI New York pulled off a thrilling five-run victory over the Seattle Orcas in the 17th match of Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026, thanks to a sensational final over from Kieron Pollard and a match-winning bowling spell by Romario Shepherd.

Defending a modest total of 132, MI New York kept their composure under pressure to restrict Seattle Orcas to 127/8 in 20 overs at the Knight Riders Cricket Field in Pomona. The contest went down to the final over, where Pollard's experience proved decisive.

Quinton de Kock Anchors MI New York Innings

After losing the toss and being asked to bat first, MI New York found scoring difficult against a disciplined Seattle bowling attack.

Wickets fell at regular intervals, but opener Quinton de Kock held the innings together with a composed knock of 61 runs off 46 balls, including six boundaries and two sixes.

Despite his efforts, MI New York struggled in the closing stages, losing five wickets for just 23 runs in the last five overs to finish on 132/8.

Seattle's Chase Starts Poorly

Seattle Orcas never gained complete control of the chase after losing two early wickets during the powerplay.

The batting lineup attempted to rebuild the innings, but MI New York's bowlers maintained pressure with disciplined bowling and tight fielding, ensuring the required run rate kept climbing.

Romario Shepherd Delivers Match-Winning Spell

Fast bowler Romario Shepherd produced the standout bowling performance for MI New York.

He finished with impressive figures of 3 wickets for 16 runs in four overs, consistently troubling the Seattle batters with pace, accuracy and clever variations.

His spell played a crucial role in keeping the target within reach for the defending side heading into the final over.

Pollard Holds His Nerve in Dramatic Finish

Seattle Orcas needed 14 runs from the final over, with experienced all-rounder Marcus Stoinis at the crease.

Kieron Pollard took responsibility for bowling the last over.

The over began dramatically as Stoinis launched the opening delivery for a huge six, reducing the equation to 8 runs needed from the remaining five balls.

However, Pollard responded immediately. On the very next delivery, Stoinis attempted another big shot but was caught, removing Seattle's biggest hope of victory.

Pollard then bowled with remarkable control, conceding only two runs from the final four deliveries to secure a memorable five-run win for MI New York.

IPL Coach Shows His Experience

While Kieron Pollard continues to play franchise cricket around the world, he also serves as the batting coach of the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

His calmness under pressure and tactical awareness were on full display in the closing moments of this MLC encounter, helping MI New York snatch victory from a tense finish.

With Quinton de Kock's half-century, Romario Shepherd's brilliant spell, and Pollard's composed final over, MI New York completed one of the most exciting victories of the MLC 2026 season.