Washington Freedom continued their resurgence in Major League Cricket 2026 with a composed five-wicket victory over San Francisco Unicorns at Knight Riders Cricket Ground. Jack Edwards starred with the ball, claiming 4/13, before Steve Smith's measured half-century laid the foundation for Freedom's second successive win.

After opting to bowl first, Freedom made the perfect start by putting the Unicorns under pressure from the outset. The breakthrough spell came from Jack Edwards, who ripped through the middle order with three wickets in the sixth over to leave San Francisco reeling at 45/4 at the end of the Powerplay.

The Unicorns found some resistance through captain Matthew Short and Hassan Khan, whose partnership carried them past the 100-run mark. Freedom, however, continued to strike at regular intervals and wrapped up the innings for 126 in 19.3 overs, ensuring the target remained well within reach.

The chase presented a few early challenges as Freedom slipped to 33/3 inside the Powerplay. Steve Smith and Mark Chapman responded with a composed fourth-wicket partnership to steady the innings before Smith brought up a well-crafted half-century from 46 deliveries. Freedom kept their composure through the closing stages, reaching 129/5 to seal the victory with five wickets in hand.

The win completed a remarkable turnaround in the standings. Having started the day at the foot of the table, Freedom became the first team to reach eight points this season, extending their winning run and strengthening their position in the race for the playoffs.