Washington Freedom bounced back in style at the Knight Riders Cricket Ground, producing a commanding all-round display to defeat Los Angeles Knight Riders by six wickets and return to winning ways in Major League Cricket.

It was a disciplined bowling performance led by Saurabh Netravalkar and Mitch Owen, before Steven Smith and Mark Chapman guided Freedom home in a composed chase to lift the team back into the top four.

After being asked to bowl first, Freedom’s attack set the tone early and never allowed LAKR to settle. Saurabh Netravalkar struck up front and finished with superb figures of 3/16, while Mitch Owen shone with the ball in hand this time, with 3/19, including a crucial double-wicket over that dented the Knight Riders’ middle order.

Ben Dwarshuis and Ian Holland chipped in with two wickets apiece as the relentless Freedom attack bowled LAKR out for 108.

Chasing 109, Freedom approached the target with composure despite Sunil Narine’s efforts with the ball for LAKR. Mark Chapma made a fluent 34 to give a lift after the loss of early wickets, while Steven Smith anchored the chase with an unbeaten 40 to see the team home.

Freedom reached 110/4 with 17 deliveries to spare and in the process, climbed to fourth place on the points table. While level on points with the top three, net run-rate keeps them just behind for now.

It was the kind of complete performance Freedom had been searching for. Sharpness with the ball, calmness with the bat, and a timely reminder of the quality within the squad as the tournament moves into a crucial phase.