As the inaugural season of the Major Cricket League (MLC) in 2023 comes closer, anticipation fills the air. This league’s formation marks a cricket revolution in the United States. It aims to attract budding American players and international superstars and inject grandeur into U.S. cricket.
The MLC features six teams. It presents prominent names from the cricketing world, enticing fans with the promise of thrilling performances. The league starters are Washington Freedom, Texas Super Kings, MI New York, San Francisco Unicorns, Los Angeles Knight Riders, and Seattle Orcas. Four teams are owned by franchises from the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The MLC boasts talented players from various regions who are going to contribute their expertise. Let us delve into the remarkable Indian and Pakistani players joining the MLC in 2023.
Indian Players:
Ambati Rayudu (Texas Super Kings): A seasoned cricketer, Ambati Rayudu, has played in 61 international games for Team India. He is a member of the IPL’s Chennai Super Kings and will now join the Texas Super Kings.
Harmeet Singh (Seattle Orcas): He was an Under-19 World Cup champion in 2012. Harmeet last competed in domestic cricket for Tripura in 2020. Now in the USA, he was the first pick for the Seattle Orcas, affirming his potential to shine in the MLC.
Sujith Gowda (Washington Freedom): Representing the Hubli Tigers in the Maharaja T20 Trophy 2022, Sujith Gowda, a Karnataka player, was chosen by Washington Freedom.
Saurabh Netravalkar (Washington Freedom) was part of Team India in the 2010 U-19 World Cup. He also played for the Mumbai cricket team in the Ranji Trophy. Now Saurabh Netravalkar is set to don the jersey of the Washington Freedom. His seasoned presence will bolster his new team’s performance.
Akhilesh Bodugum (Washington Freedom): Formerly a cricketer in Hyderabad’s first-class circuit, he is now aligned with Washington Freedom. Bodugum aspires to make an impact on his team.
Sarabjit Ladda (MI New York): Sarabjit Ladda previously represented the Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. Now, he is preparing to showcase his skills in the colours of MI New York.
Monank Patel (MI New York): Leading the USA cricket team as captain, Monank Patel brings some experience after his appearances for Gujarat’s Under-16 and Under-19 teams. His presence in MI New York ensures leadership and skill on the field.
Tajinder Singh (San Francisco Unicorns): A former Team India’s all-rounder, Tajinder Singh comes from Rajasthan. He also played for the Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians in the IPL. Now, he is set to shine for the San Francisco Unicorns.
Chaitanya Bishnoi (San Francisco Unicorns): He played for the Chennai Super Kings from 2018 to 2019. Now Chaitanya Bishnoi will likely be an asset to the San Francisco Unicorns.
Smit Patel (San Francisco Unicorns): As a member of the India U-19 team that triumphed in the ICC U-19 World Cup 2012, Smit Patel is up to high-pressure situations. In MLC 2023, he will bring his skills to the San Francisco Unicorns.
Sanjay Krishnamurthi (San Francisco Unicorns): Representing the Karnataka Under-16s in the past, Sanjay Krishnamurthi is about to contribute to the Unicorns.
Unmukt Chand (Los Angeles Knight Riders): Having led the India U-19 team to victory in 2012, he possesses certain leadership qualities. He has previously played for the Delhi Daredevils, Rajasthan Royals, and Mumbai Indians. In MLC, Chand is set to spearhead the Los Angeles Knight Riders.
Jaskaran Malhotra (Los Angeles Knight Riders): As a former player for Himachal Pradesh, he will join the Knight Riders.
Pakistani Players:
Nauman Anwar (Seattle Orcas): A 27-year-old batting all-rounder from Sialkot will join the Orcas. He played for Pakistan in a solitary match in 2015, and now Anwar is determined to showcase his skills on the international stage.
Mukhtar Ahmed (Washington Freedom): Mukhtar Ahmed, another dynamic batting all-rounder, has previously represented Pakistan in T20I cricket. With six T20I matches for the Men in Green under his belt, Ahmed joins Washington Freedom.
Saad Ali (Washington Freedom): Progressing through the U-19 system, Saad Ali enjoyed a brief international career. He now starts a new chapter at Washington.
Hammad Azam (MI New York): With a place secured in the MI New York team, Hammad Azam aims to showcase his skills in MLC 2023. Having appeared in 11 ODIs for Pakistan, the 32-year-old all-rounder adds depth and versatility to his team.
Ehsan Adil (MI New York): Ehsan Adil, an experienced player in three Tests and six ODIs, is eager to contribute to MI New York’s journey. His presence bolsters the team’s bowling attack and strengthens their chances of success.
Sami Aslam (Texas Super Kings): Sami Aslam, a player with 13 Tests and 4 ODIs for Pakistan, will represent the Texas Super Kings. Aslam’s experience and batting technique make him a true asset.
Saif Badar (Los Angeles Knight Riders): The young talent has earned a place with the Knight Riders. He played for the Under-19 national team and in the Pakistan Super League. Now Badar aims to leave an indelible mark on the MCI.
Shayan Jahangir (MI New York): Karachi’s Shayan Jahangir played for Pakistan Under-19. Now, he joins MI New York to contribute to his team’s success.
The Major Cricket League will 100% captivate cricket fans with a blend of Indian and Pakistani players. These cricketers are going to elevate the league’s level. Get ready for a cricket extravaganza in MLC!
