After weeks of thrilling action and standout performances, the 2025 Minor League Cricket season comes down to one final showdown as Atlanta Fire and Chicago Kingsmen face off tonight at Church Street Park in Morrisville for the Title. It’s a matchup between two dominant teams: one seeking redemption, the other chasing back-to-back glory.
The Road to the Final
Atlanta Fire have been one of the most consistent sides this season. Dominant through the Atlantic Conference, they showcased an ideal mix of explosive batting and tight bowling to make their way to the Playoffs with 9 wins and just one loss. Their playoff campaign began in commanding fashion with high-margin victories against NJ Somerset Cavaliers and Baltimore Royals that set the tone well and ultimately proved the difference when it came to qualification for today’s Final.
Sunny Patel remained their trump card with the ball with 20 wickets in 10 games across the regular season and following it up with equally commanding performances to take 6 wickets in the playoffs.
While a loss to New Jersey Stallions on the final day of the playoffs slightly disrupted Atlanta’s momentum heading into the championship clash, their familiarity at the Morrisville venue and a balanced side led by experienced contenders make sure the Fire remain a formidable threat. For them, this is a chance to erase the memory of their 2022 runner-up finish and finally lift the MiLC crown.
The Chicago Kingsmen, meanwhile, overcame a nervous opening weekend and then came to their familiar best to make their way to the playoffs. After a lackluster start to the season, including two washed out games, the defending champions won all their remaining games across the league stage and playoffs to cruise through the tournament, and reach their second consecutive final.
Their campaign has been built on teamwork, composure and experience. Hammad Azam’s experience and all-round pedigree has once again anchored the side, while Syed Saad Ali’s batting prowess provided them with top-order strength. With bowlers like Sukhjinder Singh and a power-hitter like Tajinder Singh, the Kingsmen arrive at the final with both form and confidence on their side.
Players to Watch
Hammad Azam (Chicago Kingsmen): The all-rounder has been the steadying force for Chicago Kingsmen. After playing a crucial role in Chicago’s qualification with an all-round performance, his unbeaten half-century against East Bay Blazers in the playoffs effectively sealed the Kingsmen’s spot in today’s Final.
His match-winning effort in last year’s Final against Blazers indicates he isn’t new to big-match pressure and therefore will be integral to Kingsmen’s chances.
Syed Saad Ali (Chicago Kingsmen): In sublime touch this season, Saad has been Chicago’s batting mainstay, crafting impactful innings under pressure. His playoff numbers, scoring 151 runs in 3 games, suggests he’s at his destructive best and will be crucial for Kingsmen as he sets a positive tone at the top.
Steven Taylor (Atlanta Fire): Atlanta’s biggest match-winner with the bat, Taylor’s power-hitting dominance can be gauged from the fact that he scored nearly more than 75% of his runs in the league stage in boundaries. If he fires, Atlanta’s top order can dictate the game early.
Sunny Patel (Atlanta Fire): The Fire’s bowling heartbeat. Patel’s control and knack for breakthroughs have defined Atlanta’s campaign. His most recent performance, returning 14/3 against Stallions, underlined his reliability as a premium spin bowler.
Shakib Al Hasan (Atlanta Fire): A proven performer on the world stage, Shakib’s all-round impact was on full display in the playoffs for the Fire. His years of T20 experience and familiarity with high-pressure games makes him a potential game-changer in the Final.
Familiarity vs Momentum
The Church Street Park has favored disciplined bowling and spin. While the Kingsmen bring a great momentum with them, Atlanta Fire come with the spin-heavy advantage as well as the edge in familiarity having played multiple games at the venue and understand its rhythm well. However, Chicago’s unbeaten run and adaptability — paired with their experience in handling pressure moments — give them a strong case to go all the way again.
A Chance for Redemption and Legacy
It’s a battle between momentum and nerves — Atlanta’s flair and familiarity against Chicago’s discipline and experience to control their nerves at crucial moments. The Fire will look to redeem their 2022 heartbreak and claim their first title, while the Kingsmen aim to etch their name into MiLC history with back-to-back championships.
Where to Watch
The 2025 championship final will be live streamed on MLC Network. Click here to watch the match live.
Click here to follow live scores.
