Australian cricket icon Steve Smith has addressed questions about his potential retirement, affirming that he remains focused o?n enjoying the game and hasn’t set a definite date for hanging u?p his boots.

Despite missing out on Australia‘s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Smith has been making waves internationally, notably captaining Washington Freedom to victory in the Major League Cricket 2024 (MLC).

Steve Smith dismisses retirement speculation

During a recent media interaction, Smith downplayed any immediate thoughts of retirement, emphasizing h?is passion for the game and expressing his excitement about upcoming opportunities.

“I don’t have any plans; I’m just enjoying playing at the moment. I’m pretty relaxed and I’m looking forward to this summer,” Smith told reporters.

The 35-year-old added that he expects to participate in several matches in the Big Bash League (BBL) this year, although he remains open to ?future opportunities as they arise.

“I think I’ll get a few [BBL] games in this year and then we’ll see where we go from there. Every chance I get, I jump at it,” Smith said.

Smith talks about his batting position

Smith also revealed ongoing discussions about his international future with Australia’s coaching staff. While his participation in upcoming T20 matches is uncertain, he confirmed that he will play a role in the one-day internationals in England before making any decisions on his future.

“The conversations I’ve had so far are that we’ll go to England and the boys will have the T20s, and then I’m there for the one-dayers and we’ll make a decision after that,” he said, hinting at potential changes depending on team dynamics and personal preferen??ces.

Regarding his batting position, Smith exhibited his usual team-first attitude. While some of his teammates, including Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne, have expressed a preference for him to bat at number ??four, Smith said he remains flexible.

“Those conversations are happening in the background. I saw some comments that Usman (Khawaja) made and I think he said he likes me down at number four, and I think Marnus (Labuschagne) is of a similar thought pattern,” he remarked, underscoring his willingness to adapt as needed.

Also READ: Australian star Steve Smith? opens u??p on his future in T20I cricket

Excels as captain in the Major League Cricket 

Although Smith was not selected for Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign, his recent performances in the MLC have been nothing short of outstanding. Leading Washington Freedom to the title, Smith was the tournament’s second-highest run-scorer, amassing 336 runs in nine matches, including three half-centuries. He averaged an impressive 56.00 with a strike rate of 148.67, reaffirming his status as one of cricket’s premier batsmen.

Smith’s leadership in the MLC and his stellar batting have demonstrated that despite not featuring in Australia’s current T20 plans, he remains a force to be reckoned with on the global stage. As he continues to enjoy his time in the game, cricket fans around the world will be watching closely to see how much longer this modern-day legend will continue to grace the sport.

Also READ: Is Virat Kohli a ‘bunny�?of Sco??tt Boland? Australia pacer responds to the playful query

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In a thrilling climax to the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2024, the Washington Freedom emerged triumphant, defeating the San Francisco Unicorns in a one-sided final. The match played at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, was marked by a dramatic moment when a beamer nearly caused chaos, but it was the Freedom’s overall dominance that sealed their fate as champions.

The victory capped?? off a remarkable campaign for the Freedom, who consistently showcased their prowess throughout the tournament. Their combination of star power, balanced squad, and clinical execution proved to be too much for their opponents.

The Washington Freedom cruised to a comprehensive 96-run victory over the San Francisco Unicorns in the tournament. The match was highlighted by a shocking incident involving Juanoy Drysdale and Steve Smith, but it was Washington’s overall dominance that stole the show.

Juanoy Drysdale’s beamer rocks Steve Smith

The 13th over of the San Francisco Unicorns’ innings witnessed a heart-stopping moment. Drysdale, aiming for a yorker to unsettle the well-set Smith, lost control of the delivery.

The ball rocketed towards Smith, who had shuffled across the crease in anticipation. Fortunately, Smith escaped serious injury as Josh Inglis, the wicketk?eeper, could?? only manage a partial save.

The delivery, rightfully called a no-ball, served as a stark reminder of the dangers asso??ciated with beamers in cricket.

Here’s the video: 

Oops! Don't think he meant to bowl that one there. 🤔 #MLC2024 | #CognizantMajorLeagueCricket | #T20 | #MLCChampionship pic.twitter.com/mCEs3jPGud

— Major League Cricket (@MLCricket) July 29, 2024

Washington Freedom batting: A masterclass by Smith

Washington Freedom set the tone for a convincing victory with a strong batting performance. The lynchpin of their innings was the ever-reliable Australian batter, who anchored the innings with a magnificent 88 runs. Smith’s knock was a display of class and composure, and he played a pivotal role in guiding his team to a formidable total.

Valuable contributions came from Glenn Maxwell, who chipped in with a bri?sk 40 runs. The rest of the Washington Freedom batting lineup played their part, ensuring a strong foundation for their bowlers to defend.

Also WATCH: Corey A??nderson’s remarkable catch to di??smiss Faf Du Plessis in MLC 2024

San Francisco Unicorns crumble under pressure

Chasing a mammoth target of 208 runs, the San Francisco Unicorns batting lineup faltered under the pressure. Their batters struggled t??o cope with the Washington Freedom bowling attack, wh?ich displayed exceptional discipline and accuracy.

The bowling trio of Rachin Ravindra, Marco Jansen, and Andrew Tye shared the spoils, each picking up three crucial wickets. The San?? Francisco Unicorns were eventually bundled out for a meagre 111 runs, falli??ng short of the target by a massive 96 runs.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Steve Smith, Rachin Ravindra guide Washington Freedom to maiden title with a win over San Francisco Unicorns in MLC 2024

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Washington Freedom will face San Francisco Unicorns in the final of the ongoing Major League Cricket (MLC) 2024. The clash will take plac??e at t??he Grand Prairie Stadium, in Dallas.

In their previous clash in Qualifier 1, Washington emerged victorious over San Francisco by 7 wickets. The Unicorns managed to pos??t a total of 145 runs before being bowled out in 19 o?vers. The Freedom, showcasing their batting prowess, chased down the target with ease, finishing at 149/3 in just 15.3 overs.

MLC 2024, Final: WAS vs SF

• Date and Time: July 28, 07:30 pm Local; July 29, 12:30 am GMT/ 06:00 am IST
• Venue: Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas

Grand Prairie Stadium Pitch Report:

Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas provides an exc??iting contest between batters and bowlers. Fast bowlers take advantage of the new ba?ll early on, making the initial overs particularly thrilling. As the innings progress, spinners shine by leveraging the pitch’s subtle characteristics to create spin. Despite this, batters benefit from the pitch, where well-executed shots are rewarded, allowing them to score runs more easily.

WAS vs SF Dream11 Prediction Picks:

• Wicketkeepers: Josh Inglis, Andries Gous
• Batters: Steve Smith, Travis Head, Finn Allen
• All-Rounders: Glenn Maxwell, Hassan Khan, Rachin Ravindra
• Bowlers: Lockie Ferguson, Saurabh Netravalkar, Haris Rauf

WAS vs SF Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

• Choice 1: Travis Head (c), Steve Smith (vc)
• Choice 2: Glenn Maxwell (c), Haris Rauf (vc)

Also READ: M??ajor League Cricket (MLC) 2024: Complete squads of all six teams

WAS vs SF Dream11 Prediction Backups:

Akeal Hosein, Corey Anderson, Pat Cumm??ins, Matt Henry

WAS vs SF Dream11 Team for today’s match (July 29, 12:30 am GMT):

Squads:

Washington Freedom �?Rachin Ravindra, Ian Holland, Akeal Hosein, Lockie Ferguson, Justin Dill, Jack Edwards, La??hiru Milant??ha, Andries Gous, Amila Aponso, Steve Smith, Saurabh Netravalkar, Yasir Mohammed, Obus Pienaar, Glenn Maxwell, Akhilesh Bodugum, Marco Jansen, Mukhtar Ahmed, Andrew Tye, Travis Head

San Fransisco Unicorns �?Pat Cummins, Qais Ahmad, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Matt Henry, Mackenzie Harvey, Lungi Ngidi, Brody Couch, Tajinder Singh, Josh Inglis, Matthew Wade, Jahmar Hamilton, Chaitanya Bishnoi, Smit Pate??l, David White, Corey Anderson, Finn Allen, Carmi le RouxLiam Plunkett, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan

Also READ: Major League Cricket 2024 Schedule, Live Score?s, Upcoming Cricket Matches, Match Timings, Venue Details and Recent Match Results.

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In a nail-biting clash at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas, the San Francisco Unicorns (SFU) edged out the Texas Super Kings (TSK) by ten runs, securing their place in the finals of Major League Cricket 2024 (MLC). The match, a spectacle of sk?i??ll and tenacity, saw several standout performances and a moment of brilliance that proved pivotal.

Corey Anderson’s stunning catch

The highlight of the match was undoubtedly the sensational catch by San Francisco’s skipper Corey Anderson. With Carmi le Roux bowling a back-of-length delivery angling wide outside off, Faf du Plessis attempted a slash shot but only managed to toe-end it. Anderson, displaying remarkable athleticism and reflexes, leapt mid-air to snatch the ball with his left hand. His incredible catch not only dismissed the dangerous du Plessis, who was threatening to take the game away within the powerplay, but it also lifted his team’s spirits with its inspirational effort.

Here is the video:

CATCH OF THE TOURNAMENT!? 🤯 My word what a catch from Corey Anderson? 😮 #MLC2024 | #CognizantMajorLeagueCricket | #T20 pic.twitter.com/8CzruEHWP7

— Major League Cricket (@MLCricket) July 27, 2024

Also WATCH: Gle?nn Maxwell’s mammoth six against Hassan Khan in the Qua??lifier of MLC 2024

Path to the finals 

The San Francisco Unicorns scored 200 runs for 6 wickets in their 20 overs. Finn Allen played a great innings, scoring 101 runs of??f 53 balls. His century was the fifth in the MLC and helped set a tough target.

The Texas Super Kings scored 190 runs for 4 wickets in their innings. Devon Conway and Joshua Tromp both?? scored half-centuries, but it wasn’t enough. The Texas Super Kings fell short by? 10 runs, and the San Francisco Unicorns won the match by 10 runs.

With this victory, the San Francisco Unicorns have booked their spot in the finals of MLC 2024. They will face the Washington Freedom on July 29 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas. The upcom??ing final promises to be an exciting showdown, as both teams vie for the coveted title.

Also MLC 2024 [WATCH]: Rashid Khan plays a remarkable innovative shot for six in the ??TSK vs MINY Eliminator game

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In a match that will be etched into Major League Cricket (MLC) folklore, Glenn Maxwell‘s colossal six propelled the Washington Freedom to a thrilling seven-wicket victory over the San Francisco Unicorns in Qualifie?r of the MLC 2024. Chasing a modest 146, Freedom were in trouble at 64/3 before Maxwell unleashed his power-hitting prowess to turn the game on its head.

San Francisco Unicorns have a stick

Batting first, the San Francisco Unicorns posted a competitive total of 145 runs in their allotted 19 overs. Hassan Khan, the tournament’s standout bowler, once again showcased his talent with a quickfire 57. However, the Unicorns’ innings was derailed by a brilliant spell from Rachin Ravindra, who claimed four wickets for just 11 runs to stifle the Unicorns’ momentum. Marco Jansen also chipped in with three wickets as the Freedom bowlers kept a tight leash on the Unicorns’ batting.

Glenn Maxwell’s masterclass

With the bat, Washington Freedom were off to a shaky start, losing their top three batters cheaply. The pressure was mounting on the Freedom, but then, Maxwell arrived at the crease. The Australian maverick wasted no time in asserting his dominance, launching into the Unicorns’ bowlers with reckless abandon.

The highlight of the ?innings, and perhaps the entire tournament so far, came when Maxwell deposited a Hassan delivery into orbit durin??g the 15th over. The ball cleared the boundary with disdain, going a staggering 103 meters away. The crowd at the Grand Prairie Stadium was left in awe as they witnessed a shot that will be replayed for years to come.

Here’s the video:

A Monster @nttdata Six sent into the crowd by the Big Show, Glenn Maxwell ☄️#MLC2024 | #NTTData | #CognizantMajorLeagueCricket | #T20 | #SFUvWF pic.twitter.com/mYlRKlnQSP

— Major League Cricket (@MLCricket) July 26, 2024

Maxwell’s brutal hitting took the game away from the Unicorns. He raced to a fifty, providing the much-needed impetus to the Freedom chase. With Travis Head providing ??steady support, the duo ensured that Washington Freedom crossed the line with seven wickets in hand and three balls to spare??.

Also WATCH: Pat Cummins dismisses Steve Smith on the very first ball of his spell in MLC 2024

Washington Freedom advance to the Final

The victory propels Washington Freedom into the final of the MLC 2024. They will be brimming with confidence after Maxwell’s match-winning heroics. On the other hand, the San Francisco Unicorns will be disappointed to miss out on the final, but they can take solace from their impressive performance throughout the tournament.

Hassan, despite conceding the longest six of the tournament, has been a ?revelation and will undoubtedly be a key player for the Unicorns in the future. The final promises to be a blockbuster clash and cricket fans around t?he world will be eagerly anticipating the showdown between the two best teams in the tournament.

Also [WATCH]: Rashid Khan plays a remarkable innovative shot for six in the TSK vs MINY Eliminator game

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In a thrilling qualifier match of Major League Cricket (MLC) 2024, Washington Freedom emerged victorious against the San Francisco Unicorns, thanks to stellar performances by Travis Head and Marco Jansen. With this victory, Washington Freedom have secured their place as the first finalist of the MLC 2024.

Pat Cummins dismisses Steve Smith 

Pat Cummins, often dubbed the ‘Golden Boy,’ delivered a crucial moment in the game by dismissing Steve Smith in an uncharacteristic fashion. Smith attempted a wild heave across the line to a length ball from Cummins, catching a faint edge off the bottom of the bat; the ball was caught by the Unicorns’ wicketkeeper, Josh Inglis. Although the umpire initial??ly gave it not out, a timely review turns out to be the right decision for the Unicorns, sending Smi??th back to the pavilion for just one run off 3 balls.

Here is the video:

Pat strikes with his first ball💥#SFUnicorns #GoCorns #MLC2024 #CognizantMajorLeagueCricket #SFUvWF pic.twitter.com/IXRhZaafNz

— San Francisco Unicorns (@SFOUnicorns) July 26, 2024

Also MLC 2024 [WATCH]: Rashid Khan plays a remarkable innovative shot for six in the TSK vs MI?NY Eliminator game

Washington Freedom in the finals of  MLC 2024

Head, the standout performer and Player of the Match, played a scintillating innings, scoring 77 runs off just 44 balls. His knock included an astonishing ten fours and three sixes, showcasing his dominance and love for big occasions. Head’s explosive batters laid a solid foundation for Washington Freedom’s successful chase.

Equally impressive was the bowling display from Jansen, who took three crucial wickets in his four overs, further stifling the Unicorns’ batting lineup. Despite the efforts of Hasan Khan, the only batter from the?? San Francisco side to score significantly, with 57 runs off 36 balls, including six massive sixes, t??he Unicorns fell short.

The San Francisco Unicorns were bowled out for 145 in?? 19 overs, while Washington Freedom easily chased down the target, finishing at 149 for 3 in 15.3 overs, clinching the victory by seven wickets.

As Washington Freedom cruise to their first finals in the MLC 2024, the Unicorns will have another shot at redemption as they face the Texas Super Kings in the next qualifier.

Also MLC 2024 [WATCH]: Mitchell Santner’s monstrous six a?gainst Ali Sheikh in the TSK vs SEO game

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In an exclusive interview with the NZ Herald, New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra emphasised the enduring significance of int?ernational cricket despite the growing prominence of franchise leagues.

Rachin Ravindra on international cricket 

Ravindra, who has showcased his talent across all formats of the game, including stints with prominent franchises like the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Washington Freedom in Major Cricket League (MLC) 2024,?? reiterated his unwaveri?ng commitment to representing New Zealand on the international stage.

“The numerous franchise-based T20 leagues have indeed transformed modern cricket, compelling international cricket to adapt accordingly,” Ravindra noted. “However, despite this evolution, my dedication to playing for New Zealand remains steadfast. I am fully committed to my national team, and regardless of any opportunities that arise, my focus is on representing my country.”

Ravindra also expressed his admiration for t?est cricket, underscoring its continued importance and the many contexts for international cr??icket, including world tournaments and the World Cup.

“Test cricket is still regarded as the pinnacle of the sport. Every test match carries the weight of the World Test Championship, and it remains the ultimate challenge for many. The value placed on international cricket, including world tournaments and the World Cup, will persist despite the allure of franchise leagues.”

Also READ: New Zealand Cricket announces central contracts for 20???24-25 season

Ravindra on learning from Ricky Ponting

Currently plying his trade with Washington Freedom in MLC 2024, In the interview, Rachin also discussed his teammates, Steve Smith and Travis Head, and praised his team’s coach, Ricky Ponting. He emphas??ized how beneficial it has been for him to lea?rn from such experienced and accomplished figures.

“Playing alongside world-class talents like Steve Smith and Travis Head is a privilege. Travis has been in phenomenal form over the past two years, and Steve is undoubtedly one of the greatest players of all time. Being able to learn from them, as well as from our coach Ricky Ponting, who has achieved so much in his career, is incredibly enriching. Their competitive mindset and expertise have been invaluable to my development.”

Ravindra’s comments reflect a deep respect for the traditions of international cricket while acknowledging the dynamic changes brought about by franchise leagues. His commitment to New Zealand and appreciation for the learning opportunities from cricket legends underscore his dedication to the sport’s highest standards.

Also MLC 2024 [WATCH]: Rashid Khan plays a remarkable inn??ovat?ive shot for six in the TSK vs MINY Eliminator game

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Afghanistan’s star all-rounder, Rashid Khan, illuminated the crowd at the Grand Prairie Stadium with a scintillating half-century for MI New York in their Major League Cricket (MLC) 2024 Eliminator clash against the Texas Super Kings.

Rashid, batting higher in the order than usual, unleashed a barrage of powerful strokes during his 30-ball innings, amassing 55 runs. His explosive performance included a standout moment with an innovative shot that featured prominently in the highlights of the New York innings, which concluded?? at 163/8 in their 20 overs.

Rashid Khan’s unique stroke play

Rashid is well-known for his ability to replicate MS Dhoni’s signature ‘helicopter�?shot, a swi??ft aerial flick from near the off-stump to the on-side, often resulti??ng in a six. However during the match, Rashid introduced a unique shot of himself.

Facing a delivery from pacer Aaron Hardie, Rashid innovatively adjusted his approach. On the last ball of the 17th over, with a delivery marginally short and outside?? off-stump, Rashid sat deep in his crease and, with a powerful whip of his bat, sent th?e ball soaring over wide long-on for a spectacular six.

Here’s the video:

𝙉𝙊. 𝙉𝙊𝙏𝙀𝙎! 🔥#OneFamily #MINewYork #CognizantMajorLeagueCricket #MINYvTSK | @rashidkhan_19 pic.twitter.com/qgAGx29l3M

— MI New York (@MINYCricket) July 25, 2024

Also READ: Major ??League Cricket (MLC) 2024: Broadcast, live streaming details �?When and Where to watch in India, US, UK, Australia & other countries

MI New York’s challenging start

New York’s innings got off to a rocky start after being asked to bat first by TSK. They lost opener Dewald Brevis for a duck and Nicholas Pooran for 8, both wickets falling inside the first four overs, ?leaving the tea?m at a precarious 18 for 2.

Shayan Jahangir and Monank Patel then steadied the innings with a 39-run partnership before Dwayne Bravo disrupted it by dismissing Jahangir for 26 off 23 balls. Rashid then joined Patel,? and a?lthough the duo added a promising 35 runs, Patel was dismissed by spinner Noor Ahmad for a well-made 48 off 41 balls.

Rashid’s impactful innings

Despite the interruptions, Rashid’s innings proved crucial. He counter-attacked with flair, hitting Bravo and Noor for boundaries, and scored two consecutive sixes off Hardie. His aggressive batting helped elevate the score to a competitive 163, though Romario Shepherd and New York’s captain, Kieron Pollard, contributed modestly. Rashid’s innings, characterized by 4 fours and 4 sixes, came a??t an impressive strike rate of 183.33. It marked the fourth time he has scored a fifty in T20 cricket.

Victory for the Texas Super Kings

In the second innings, despite a brief rain delay complicating conditions,?? Rashid delivered a disciplined spell of bowling. He was introduced in the fourth over and conceded only four runs. Over his four-over spell, he maintained tight control, giving away just 22 runs.

Nevertheless, despite Rashid’s efforts, the Texas Kings chased down the target with ease. The leading run-scorer of the tournament, Faf du Plessis, co??ntinued his exceptional form, scoring another fifty and guiding TSK to a nine-wicket victory, thus winning the crucial Eliminator game.

Also READ: Star players from IPL 2024?? who features in MLC 202??4

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In a match curtailed by rain, the San Francisco Unicorns emerged victorious over the Washington Freedom by six wickets in the Major League Cricket at Dallas on Sunday. The Unicorns chased down a revised target of 177 runs in 13.4 overs, with Sanjay Krishnamurthi’s unbeaten 79 being the cornerstone of their chase. However, the highlight of the match was undoubtedly Akeal Hosein’s dismissal of Finn Allen for a golden duck.

Akil Hossein’s deadly delivery

While Krishnamurthi’s inning was undoubtedly crucial, Hosein’s dismissal of Finn captured everyone’s attention. Allen, known for his aggressive batting, came to the crease with high expectations. However, Hosein had other plans.

The left-arm spinner delivered a skiddy delivery that came into the right-hander. Allen, looking to pull, was deceived ?by the pace and trajectory of the ball. The delivery crashed into the middle stump, leaving Allen stunned and Washington’s dugout in jubilation.

Hosein’s d??ismissal of Allen was a crucial bre??akthrough for Washington. It put a dent in the Unicorns�?batting lineup and gave the Freedoms a much-needed early advantage. The wicket also showcased Hossein’s skill and ability to deliver under pressure.

Here’s the video:

FIRST BALL WICKET!☝️🤩#MLC2024 | #CognizantMajorLeagueCricket | #T20 pic.twitter.com/Uvmo5QhKFx

— Major League Cricket (@MLCricket) July 23, 2024

Also WATCH: Kieron Pollard’s heartfelt gesture after accidentally hitt??ing a fan with his six in MLC 2024

San Francisco Unicorns ends the winning streak of Washington Freedom

The Freedom, batting first, managed to post a respectable total of 174 runs for the loss of three wickets in their allotted 15.3 overs. Steve Smith and Travis Head both contributed half-centuries, but the innings lacked the momentum they needed. Corey Anderson was the pick of the Unicorns�?bowlers, finishing with figures of 2 for 2??0.

The Unicorns�?chase started off under immense pressure, losing openers James Frazer-Mcgirk and Allen, both early in the second innings, with the sheer determination and intent of Josh Inglis and Krishnamurthi putting on a 70-run s??tand. Inglis made a quickfire 45 before? being dismissed, but Krishnamurthi continued his assault on the Freedom bowlers. He remained unbeaten on 79, guiding his team to victory with four balls to spare.

The victory for the Unicorns was a significant one, as it helped them consolidate their position in the p??oints table. The Freedom, on the other hand, will be disappointed with their performance and will need to regroup for their next match as it ended the winning streak for them facing their first loss of the tournament.

Also READ MLC 2024: Finn Allen takes San Francisco Unicorns into the playoffs; knockout Seattle Orcas

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