Dasun Shanaka's fifty, Marcus Stoinis' three-fer power Seattle Orcas to 20-run win over Los Angeles Knight Riders

The Seattle Orcas returned to winning ways with a disciplined all-round performance, defeating the Los Angeles Knight Riders by 20 runs in Match 14 of the 2026 Major League Cricket (MLC) season at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on Sunday.After opting to bat first, Seattle posted a competitive 154/7 before producing a clinical bowling display to restrict the Knight Riders to 134/8, sealing a deserved victory.Seattle's innings looked in danger of losing momentum after regular wickets, but captain Dasun Shanaka produced a game-changing knock under pressure. The Sri Lankan all-rounder smashed an unbeaten 58 off just 23 deliveries, shifting gears brilliantly in the death overs.

His explosive innings featured four boundaries and five towering sixes, helping Seattle recover from a difficult position and finish with a challenging total.Ali Sheikh also played a vital supporting role in the middle order, compiling a composed 38 from 29 balls. His measured innings allowed Shanaka the freedom to launch an assault late in the innings as the pair ensured Seattle crossed the 150-run mark.For the Knight Riders, Sunil Narine once again showcased his value with the ball.

The veteran spinner conceded just 17 runs in his four overs while claiming two wickets, keeping Seattle's scoring rate in check for much of the innings. Fabian Allen and Shadley van Schalkwyk also chipped in with two wickets apiece to prevent the Orcas from posting an even bigger total.Chasing 155, Los Angeles began with positive intent as Andre Fletcher struck 23 off only 13 balls. However, Seattle's bowlers quickly wrestled back control, removing wickets at regular intervals and never allowing the chase to gather momentum.Colin Munro fought hard with a top score of 33 from 36 deliveries, but his innings lacked the acceleration required in a demanding chase. With partnerships proving difficult to build, the required run rate continued to climb, placing increasing pressure on the middle order. Marcus Stoinis delivered the decisive spell for Seattle, mixing his pace cleverly to finish with outstanding figures of 3/28. Harmeet Singh complemented him perfectly from the other end, picking up 2/20 and tightening the screws during the middle overs.Seattle's disciplined bowling effort and sharp fielding ensured the Knight Riders finished on 134/8 after 20 overs, handing the Orcas a convincing 20-run victory.