Could have gone right down to the wire had the Unicorns got to 150 but today belonged to Freedom. They were the better side, hands down. They didn't give an inch away with the ball and then the Smith-Chapman stand put the game to bed. Chaudhary hit the winning runs; he's getting used to that role. There simply weren't enough incisions from the Unicorns and one good partnership was all it took to put the game beyond their reach. Freedom will be delighted with the win as they jump to the top of the table. This season is incredibly tight so every game carries massive significance. There's not much time to cool off, though, as the second game of the double-header is about to get underway. You can switch tabs now as Rashad has already fired up the comms. For now, this is Rvel Zahid, saying sayonara on behalf of K. Vairavan.

Matt Short, San Francisco Unicorns Captain: Obviously, credit to Washington; they bowled really well. I think the conditions they played in probably played a part as well. It comes down to the conditions and the challenges each surface presents. If it's lower and more consistent, it's a bit easier, but if it's bouncing as well, it can be tougher to bat. The team that adapts quicker to the conditions at the time of the game has the advantage. It's very tight on the table. Last time we had a win but just missed out on first, so it shows how close it is. Every win is crucial, and even staying in the game until the 18th over is important.

Rohan J: "I believe AUS should give Smith a chance in LA28. That is something that has kept him from retirement in T20Is and his experience and success (as captain & player) in MLC also makes a strong case for his inclusion"