(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
San Francisco Unicorns Become First to Qualify for MLC 2025 Playoffs, Led by Haris Rauf’s Brilliant Form
The San Francisco Unicorns have made history by becoming the first team to qualify for the playoffs of Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025, thanks to a flawless run powered by Pakistan’s pace star Haris Rauf.
After an inconsistent showing last year, Rauf has bounced back in spectacular fashion, emerging as the top-performing bowler in MLC 2025. With six wins from six matches, the Unicorns remain unbeaten, sitting comfortably at the top of the points table with 12 points and a remarkable net run rate of +2.472—the best in the tournament by far.
Haris Rauf Leads from the Front
Haris Rauf has been a game-changer this season, leading the MLC wicket-taking charts with 16 wickets in just six games. With an average of 13.18, he has delivered key breakthroughs in both the powerplay and death overs. His bowling has been fast, accurate, and consistent, proving crucial in tight match situations.
The 30-year-old Pakistani pacer, who was retained by the Unicorns despite a below-par season in 2024, has more than justified the franchise’s faith in him.
A Balanced Team Effort
While Rauf has dominated with the ball, he has been well supported by Xavier Bartlett, who is currently second on the wicket-takers list with 10 wickets. Together, they have formed one of the most dangerous fast-bowling duos in the league.
On the batting front, New Zealand’s Finn Allen has been in explosive form, scoring 298 runs in five innings at an average of 59.60 and an astonishing strike rate of 246.28—the highest in the tournament. His performances have helped set the tone for the Unicorns’ dominant run.
Other key contributions have come from:
-
Hassan Khan – Consistent middle-order performances
-
Matthew Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Romario Shephard – Key runs in crucial moments
Playoff-Bound and Title-Ready
With their playoff spot secured and their entire squad performing in sync, the San Francisco Unicorns are shaping up as strong title contenders for this year’s MLC. Haris Rauf’s return to form has not only energized the bowling unit but also reinforced his status as one of the most lethal T20 bowlers in world cricket.
As the competition heads into its final stages, the Unicorns will be looking to maintain their unbeaten streak and bring home a historic MLC title.
