The second match of Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 delivered high-octane drama, edge-of-the-seat action, and one unforgettable moment of brilliance from a 40-year-old Faf du Plessis. The South African legend once again proved why he’s considered one of the finest fielders the game has ever seen, grabbing a sensational one-handed catch to dismiss Michael Bracewell and ignite the Texas Super Kings’ defense at the Oakland Coliseum in California.
Faf du Plessis pulls off a flying screamer to send Michael Bracewell back
The highlight of the night came in the 14th over of MI New York’s innings when Adam Milne delivered a slower back-of-a-length ball to Bracewell. The Kiwi batter tried to flat-bat the delivery with power but couldn’t get enough elevation. Positioned at mid-off, Du Plessis reacted in a flash. Moving swiftly to his right, he launched himself mid-air and plucked the ball with just his right hand — a moment that had the crowd on their feet and commentators in disbelief. It was a moment of magic that not only lifted the team’s spirit but also turned the tide in what became a nail-biting contest.
Here’s the video:
WHAT A CATCH BY FAF DU PLESSIS ‼️
This belongs at the top of @SportsCenter‘s Top 10. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/3iKYrVLgLS
— Cognizant Major League Cricket (@MLCricket) June 14, 2025
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Texas Super Kings clinch tight win despite late MI New York surge
Asked to bat first, the Texas Super Kings posted a competitive 185/6 in their 20 overs. While Du Plessis couldn’t get going with the bat, Devon Conway played the anchor with a well-compiled 65 off 44 balls. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Texas found a late flourish from tailender Calvin Savage, who played a pivotal cameo with an unbeaten 53, pushing the total beyond par.
MI New York gave the chase a real fight. Monank Patel top-scored with 62 off 44 balls, and Bracewell added a quickfire 38. But du Plessis’ brilliant catch and disciplined death bowling from Texas ensured MI New York fell agonizingly short by just 3 runs, ending at 182/7. The catch was not just a fielding highlight—it was a statement that age is no barrier when passion meets preparation. And for Texas Super Kings, it proved to be a game-changing moment in their thrilling opening win.
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