Steve Smith Scripts T20 History! Washington Freedom Break Punjab Kings’ World Record With Record 270-Run Chase

Washington Freedom produced one of the greatest run chases ever witnessed in T20 cricket, defeating defending champions MI New York by six wickets in the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 Eliminator at the Oakland Coliseum.

Led by a sensational unbeaten century from captain Steve Smith and a breathtaking innings from Andries Gous, Washington chased down a mammoth 267-run target, finishing on 270/4 in just 18.4 overs. The successful chase is now the highest in T20 cricket history, surpassing the previous record held by Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Smith and Gous Turn the Game Around

Washington Freedom’s chase got off to a shaky start as they slipped to 10/2 inside the opening three overs. However, Steve Smith and Andries Gous completely changed the complexion of the contest.

The duo stitched together a stunning 241-run partnership for the third wicket, taking the attack to MI New York’s bowling unit from the outset.

Smith remained unbeaten on 110 off 48 balls, anchoring the chase with a blend of calculated aggression and elegant stroke play. At the other end, Gous stole the show with a blistering 132 off just 52 deliveries, smashing 10 fours and 12 sixes to earn the Player of the Match award.

Nicholas Pooran’s Century Goes in Vain

Earlier in the match, Nicholas Pooran had given MI New York the perfect platform by blasting a stunning 31-ball century, the fastest hundred in MLC history.

His explosive innings powered MI New York to a daunting total of 266, a score that looked more than enough on most occasions. But Washington Freedom’s remarkable response rewrote the record books.

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma Sends Strong Fitness Warning Ahead of England ODIs… India Captain Begins Batting Grind After Family Break

Punjab Kings’ Record Falls

Until now, the record for the highest successful chase in T20 cricket belonged to Punjab Kings, who successfully chased 265 against Delhi Capitals during the IPL 2026 season.

That victory had itself broken Punjab’s previous record of chasing 262 against Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024.

Washington Freedom have now gone one step further by successfully chasing 267, setting a new global benchmark in T20 cricket.

Highest Successful Run Chases in T20 Cricket

A Night to Remember

The Eliminator, which was a rematch of last season’s MLC final, delivered unforgettable entertainment for cricket fans.

While Nicholas Pooran’s record-breaking century appeared destined to guide MI New York to victory, Washington Freedom responded with an even more extraordinary batting display. Steve Smith’s composed leadership and Andries Gous’ fearless stroke play ensured the franchise created a new chapter in T20 history with the highest successful run chase the format has ever witnessed.