Kieron Pollard hurls ball at Steve Smith after getting frustrated during MLC 2026 Eliminator

Tempers flared during the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 Eliminator between Washington Freedom and MI New York as Kieron Pollard and Steve Smith were involved in a heated on-field exchange in Oakland on Thursday, July 16.

The incident occurred during MI New York's bowling innings when they were trying to stop Washington Freedom's record-breaking chase. Smith, who was in sublime touch, had already taken Pollard apart for two sixes in the over before the veteran all-rounder responded with a dot ball.

After beating Smith with a slower delivery outside off stump, Pollard collected the ball in his follow-through and angrily threw it towards the Australian batter. Smith managed to duck out of the way as the ball flew over him to the wicketkeeper. The two players exchanged a few words immediately after the incident, with Smith wearing a smile while Pollard appeared visibly frustrated.

Kieron Pollard vs Steve Smith | Polly wanted the smoke 😳💨🔥

Despite the brief altercation, Smith remained unfazed and continued his spectacular innings. The Washington Freedom skipper smashed an unbeaten 110 off just 48 deliveries, including seven fours and nine sixes, to guide his side to one of the greatest victories in T20 history.

Chasing a mammoth 267-run target, Washington Freedom recovered from 10/2 to complete the highest successful run chase in men's T20 cricket. Smith shared a sensational 241-run partnership for the third wicket with wicketkeeper-batter Andries Gous, who stole the show with a breathtaking 132 off 51 balls, laced with 10 fours and 12 sixes.

The duo powered Washington Freedom to the target in just 18.4 overs, knocking defending champions MI New York out of the tournament. Earlier in the evening, MI New York had looked set for victory after captain Nicholas Pooran blasted a sensational 100 off just 31 balls, the fastest century in MLC history, helping his side post a daunting total.

However, Washington Freedom rewrote the record books with an extraordinary chase, surpassing the previous record for the highest successful chase in men's T20 cricket. The record was earlier held by Punjab Kings, who chased down 266 against Delhi Capitals during the IPL 2026 season.