By Tim Douglas 
Shimron Hetmyer continued his white-hot form with the bat, powering Seattle Orcas to another nail-biting win in the 2025 Major League Cricket season, this time against the LA Knight Riders in a pulsating clash at Grand Prairie.
Less than 24 hours after his last-ball heroics stunned MI New York, Hetmyer returned with a vengeance, hammering 64 not out off just 25 balls, ensuring the Orcas chased down 203 with one ball to spare. With six massive sixes and four boundaries, the left-hander once again showed why he’s one of the most lethal finishers in the game today.
The Orcas’ response began shakily, losing opener Josh Brown on the second ball. But the early setback was handled with calm assurance by Shayan Jahangir (43) and Aaron Jones (73 off 48). Their 119-run second-wicket stand provided the platform for the chase, navigating the early threat of Jason Holder and spinners with composure.
However, leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha swung the momentum back LAKR’s way, delivering a game-changing double-strike in a miserly over that cost just two runs. At 143/4, the match hung in the balance.
That’s when Hetmyer took command.
With a blend of calculated aggression and flair, he dismantled Sangha in his final over and relentlessly attacked the LA Knight Riders’ bowling lineup in the death overs. His second consecutive half-century in as many nights came in just 18 balls, sealing another classic finish for the Orcas.
Earlier in the evening, Andre Russell was at his explosive best. After an early triple strike by Orcas’ spinners Waqar Salamkheil and Harmeet Singh, Russell paired up with Saif Badar (41 off 21) to revive the innings. The duo added 77 for the fourth wicket before Rovman Powell (43 off 21) joined Russell to pile on more pressure, taking the score to a formidable 202/4.
Despite the late fireworks from LAKR, it was Hetmyer who stole the show once again, anchoring the chase with confidence and power.
The win propels Seattle Orcas to 4 points, placing them back in contention for a playoff spot. Both sides now head to Florida for the next leg of the tournament. The Orcas prepare for a crucial battle against San Francisco Unicorns, while the Knight Riders aim to regroup against MI New York.
Match Summary:
Los Angeles Knight Riders 202/4 (Andre Russell 65*, Rovman Powell 43*, Saif Badar 41; Waqar Salamkheil 2/29)
Seattle Orcas 206/5 in 19.5 overs (Aaron Jones 73, Shimron Hetmyer 64*, Shayan Jahangir 43; Jason Holder 2/36, Tanveer Sangha 2/39)
Result: Seattle Orcas won by 5 wickets
Anas Ahmed