- June 10, 2025
Washington Freedom did not simply win the MLC last season – they changed the whole narrative. From their clever recruiting efforts to the audacity of their mix of cricketers, all the pieces fell into place. However, the essential piece to the puzzle was Ricky Ponting. His intrepid entry brought instant credibility to the franchise, helping turn an upstart team into a winning team. Now, as the calendar turns to the lead-up of MLC 2025, the question is an easy one: can they do it again?
Ponting’s Pull: More Than Just a Coach
Ricky Ponting is more than a coach, he is a human trophy cabinet. As a coach, his appointment was the catalyst for the transformation of Freedom, providing not just tactical nous but elite-level standards. While he unified the dressing room, he also transformed the way the team approached recruitment.
With no international player draft, the franchises rely heavily on networks. Having Ponting in the picture initially helped to get a dream trio of Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Glenn Maxwell—three of Australia’s best three players. That’s not just scouting, that is a level above leadership. Not all three will be available this time, but the Ponting factor still holds some weight. Having him on the sidelines is like starting with a head start.
Squad Strength
The lack of Head and the limited availability of Smith might have created fear for most teams. But Freedom is not the most teams. There was smarts in their planning, marrying experience and experience at the same time.
Ravindra and Chapman were expected to do the business at the top of the order. Ravindra has now grown to be a world-class batter, and Chapman has helped bring the balance to this lineup with his consistency. Steve Smith would only play two or three matches, but in small doses, he would make a big impact on the competition.
Glenn Phillips and Glenn Maxwell provide real middle-order firepower, both come back sharply after recovering from injury. Phillips has T20 versatility, while Maxwell is pure x-factor, and both are capable game changers. The pace battery is varied and powerful; Lockie Ferguson, Jason Behrendorff, and Ben Sears provide coverage across the phases.
Homegrown Backbone
Star players attract the headlines, but it is often the local core that drives matches home. Freedom has retained their local talent well, with Andries Gous and Obus Pienaar expected to be involved again. Gous is proving to be a consistent match-winner and the glue in their batting.
Saurabh Netravalkar returns after a great season, and Jasdeep Singh showed he was more than a fill-in while Netravalkar was away. Their combined control also gives Washington Freedom a regarded domestic bowling foundation.
Yasir Mohammad has been a 12th man for a couple of years, but could surprise everyone. If leg spin is going to play a part this year, Yasir’s leggies may get a chance for some limelight! Don’t forget Ian Holland, an invaluable all-rounder who strengthens and balances the team.
Washington Freedom isn’t just defending the title – they are building a dynasty. With a winning culture, experienced players, and Ricky Ponting at the helm, they are certainly in the conversation of back-to-back champions. Yes, things will look different minus some key Australians, but Freedom has shown they do not rely on individuals; they win as a group.
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