Texas Super Kings (TSK) all-rounder Dwayne Bravo showcased his power-hitting prowess during his side's match against Washington Freedom in the Major League Cricket (MLC). Bravo's valiant effort, however, went in vain as Washington secured a 6-run victory on Sunday, July 16 at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.
Chasing 164, TSK endured a batting collapse and looked like they would be bowled out for a low score, but the West Indian cricketer unleashed the Caribbean powerhouse with a blistering 39-ball 75*. His stunning knock, which included five boundaries and six maximums, gave off the old vibes of his playing days with TSK's parent franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
However, the highlight of his splendid innings was a gigantic six against South African speedster Anrich Nortje. Bravo, anticipating Nortje's express short delivery, moved to his left and put the ball out of the park for a 106-meter six. The right-handed batter sent teammates in the dugout and spectators in awe with a monstrous hit.
Watch the video below:
Dwayne Bravo smashed 106 meter six against Nortje.
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 17, 2023
Biggest in MLC 2023!!! pic.twitter.com/zt6QrxCuM3
Brilliant to see DJ Bravo bringing out the calypso flavour: Faf du Plessis on Bravo's innings
Earlier, Washington, who won the toss and batted first, scored 163 on the back of opener Matthew Short's 50-ball 80, which included 10 fours and 3 sixes. Gerald Coetzee grabbed two wickets, while Bravo, Mitchell Santner, and Mohammad Mohsin each took one.
In reply, TSK suffered an early setback as they lost Devon Conway for a golden duck in the very first over. Former CSK opener and TSK skipper Faf du Plessis struggled to find resistance and eventually got dismissed for 14 off 15 deliveries. Except for Bravo's lone fight, it was a disappointing performance from the TSK batting unit.
Speaking after the match, Du Plessis felt that a poor start and falling of wickets in regular intervals cost the match for them. However, he also praised Bravo's brilliant knock, which nearly brought his team to the finish line.
"It was one of those wickets where it wasn't easy to bat on. Matthew Short was one guy who made it look easy. It was brilliant to see DJ Bravo bringing out the calypso flavour and playing that way. We lost too many wickets in the powerplay, when you are chasing such a target you need to get off to a good start."