Faf du Plessis’ 113 eclipses Tim Seifert’s century as Texas Super Kings beat Seattle Orcas by 6 wickets

Faf’s century propels TSK to 6-wicket victory (Image: X) Veteran South African batsman Faf du Plessis turned back the clock with a sensational unbeaten century as Texas Super Kings (TSK) opened their Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 campaign with a thrilling six-wicket victory over Seattle Orcas at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas.Chasing a daunting target of 221, TSK rode on a master class from their captain who smashed an unbeaten 113 off just 52 deliveries to guide 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 dismantled the Orcas bowling attack with seven fours and seven sixes.

Faf became the oldest to score a century

Tapping was historic in many ways. At 41 years and 340 days, du Plessis became the oldest player to score a T20 century, breaking 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 set the tone for Orcas

Earlier, Seattle Orcas looked set for victory after opener Tim Seifert produced a magnificent innings of 104 off 66 balls to register his maiden MLC century. He was ably supported by Shayan Jahangir who hit 78 off 47 deliveries. The duo added a tournament record 191 runs for the opening wicket, powering Seattle to an impressive 220/2 in their 20 overs.However, the massive total proved insufficient against the rampant Texas batting line-up. After losing Saitej Mukkamalla early in the opening match, du Plessis launched a stunning counter-attack. Along with fellow South African Rilee Rossouw, who smashed 49 off just 21 balls, he added 95 runs to put TSK firmly past the required rate.Texas raced to 89/1 during the power play and never let the pressure build from the chase. Wiaan Mulder then provided the finishing touches with an unbeaten 31 off 15 balls to ensure TSK crossed the finish line at 221/4 in 18.3 overs.

Which performance in the match impressed you the most?

Quick Score:

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.