The San Francisco Unicorns jumped to the top of the MLC 2026 standings with a batting masterclass over Washington Freedom by eight wickets and significantly improved their net run-rate.Chasing a challenging target of 191, the Unicorns posted 193/2 in just 15.1 overs to overtake the Seattle Orcas, who had briefly topped the overs earlier in the day. The statement win also bolsters San Francisco’s credibility as one of the tournament favorites heading into the league stage.The chase revolves around Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Finn Allenthey ripped apart Liberty’s offense from the outside.Pretorius smashed 66 off just 26 balls while Allen smashed 45 off 18 balls as the duo effectively ended the match in the Powerplay.
Pretorius believes in management support
Pretorius, who was named man of the match, said the confidence shown in him by the coaching staff was key to his outstanding consistency.“I just think it all comes back to management supporting you and always speaking up and encouraging you to stay positive,” he said.The young opener revealed that he was aware of the fastest 50-ball record while taking part in the tournament and celebrated reaching the milestone in just 16 balls.“I wanted to break the record after the first round, so, yeah, I’m happy that I got that last six,” he said after his 16-ball 50.Pretorius added that clear thinking rather than reckless attack has transformed his batting.“I think it probably goes both ways, like recklessness. I fell into that trap… Now it’s just about backing your choices and sticking to your game plan, reading the conditions and trying to assess what I think are important as an opening batsman,” he added.He also acknowledges the complexity of surfaces.“On a wicket like this, it’s a bit of a two-step, just be clear and support your choice and be 100 per cent committed to it. That’s my mentality every game,” he said.Freedom’s 190 is well below parEarlier, Washington Liberty posted a seemingly competitive 190/4 after Andries Gous dominated the innings with an unbeaten 83 off 50 balls and Mitchell Owen added a quick 39 off balls.Nikhil Chaudhary added valuable momentum to the team with his 32 runs off 19 deliveries, but Liberty’s bowlers failed to take advantage of the two-pace conditions and were provided with multiple scoring chances.The Unicorns had an easy time in the chase, with three receiving errors compounding their problems.Asked who hit the bigger six between him and Allen, Pretorius smiled and replied: “Probably Finn.”With this convincing victory, San Francisco not only completed one of its fastest successful chases of the season, but also returned to the top of the MLC standings.
