Veteran South African batsman I salute you Plessis rolled back the clock with a sensational unbeaten century as the Texas Super Kings (TSK) kicked off their Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 campaign with a thrilling six-wicket win over the Seattle Orcas at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.Chasing a daunting target of 221, TSK were in for a masterclass from their captain, who smashed an unbeaten 113 off just 52 deliveries to take his side home with nine balls to spare. The innings was a reminder of du Plessis’ enduring class and power, as the 41-year-old smashed Orcas’ bowling attack with seven fours and seven sixes.
Faf became the oldest to score a century
Typing was historic in more ways than one. At 41 years and 340 days, du Plessis became the oldest player to score a T20 century, surpassing the previous record held by former England all-rounder Paul Collingwood. He reached the milestone in just 45 balls and also extended his record as the leading centurion in MLC history with his fourth hundred in the competition.
Tim Seifert sets the tone for Orcas
Earlier, Seattle Orcas looked set for victory after rookie Tim Seifert produced a magnificent innings of 104 off 66 balls, registering his first MLC century. He was ably supported by Shayan Jahangir, who scored 78 off 47 deliveries. The duo added a tournament record 191 runs for the opening wicket, helping Seattle reach a staggering 220/2 in their 20 overs.However, the big total proved insufficient against the rampant Texas batting line-up. After losing Saiteja Mukkamalla early in the first over, du Plessis launched a stunning counter-attack. Along with fellow South African Rilee Rossouw, who blasted 49 off just 21 balls, he added 95 runs to keep TSK well ahead of the asking rate.Texas raced to 89/1 inside the power play and never let the pressure of the chase mount. Wiaan Mulder then provided the finishing touch with an unbeaten 31 off 15 balls, ensuring TSK crossed the finish line at 221/4 in 18.3 overs.
Points for the letter:
Seattle Orcas 220/2 (20 overs) – Tim Seifert 104 (66), Shayan Jahangir 78 (47)Texas Super Kings 221/4 (18.3 overs) – Faf du Plessis 113* (52), Rilee Rossouw 49 (21), Wiaan Mulder 31* (15)Result: Texas Super Kings won by 6 wickets.
