Eye on USA: 4 Uncapped players aiming to turn heads in MLC

Eye on USA: 4 Uncapped players aiming to turn heads in MLC

By Smit Patel

Which of these four will have a breakout season?

Agni Chopra

The former Mizoram and Mumbai U19 captain garnered significant attention in this year's domestic MLC draft. The 26-year-old concluded his domestic career with Mizoram, a period highlighted by an impressive feat of scoring four centuries in his first four Ranji Trophy games, securing his place in the record books. Despite an exceptional first-class average of 94.94 reminiscent of Bradman, Chopra couldn't secure a spot in the IPL. Consequently, he decided to pursue opportunities in his birth country by entering the domestic draft. He was subsequently drafted by MI New York, a franchise he supported as a child. Though in unfamiliar surroundings, he will find familiarity representing the American extension of the IPL franchise from his hometown.

Agni Chopra could give selectors a welcome dilemma.

The USA currently possesses a strong contingent of right-handed batsmen in their top and middle order. The infrequent inclusion of Steven Taylor has meant that the USA has lacked a frontline left-handed batsman in their top 4 for a considerable time. However, with T20 cricket increasingly influenced by strategic matchups, a successful Chopra could present the selectors with a desirable selection dilemma. As the son of acclaimed Bollywood producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Agni will not find a better stage than MI New York to make an impression, especially with USA skipper Monank Patel observing from the other end.

Tajinder Singh Dhillon

Tajinder Dhillon's journey is marked by perseverance, delayed recognition, and recurring setbacks. Despite being consistently overlooked in age-group cricket, he ascended to the IPL with Mumbai Indians and the former Kings XI Punjab, only to spend his time on the bench. Dhillon made a courageous decision to leave his BCCI career, enticed by the prospect of finding his breakthrough in America through the MLC. However, two years later, he faces a familiar challenge – remaining on the periphery. In two seasons, he has only been given five opportunities, all low down the batting order, with no chance to bat higher than number 7.

Tajinder Singh Dhillon aims for a breakthrough season.

Earlier this year, Dhillon made another bold move, requesting his release ahead of the MLC draft. This was a risky decision for any cricketer in America, particularly one uncertain about their next paycheck. There was a significant risk of going unsold. However, Dhillon was confident in his decision. Fortunately, the MI franchise did not need a second invitation to reunite with their former player, as Dhillon was picked up by MINY. He has been a dominant force in domestic cricket, demonstrating ferocious stroke play against every bowling attack. He went on a run of MVP performances across tournaments in American domestic cricket, most notably in the 2024 Minor League campaign, where he led the Chicago Kingsmen to the title with 394 runs in 9 innings, striking at 146 from No. 4 or 5.

Dhillon brings considerable power to the middle order, excelling in power-hitting against spin. Quick to get started and unafraid to take risks, he is a disruptive force in the middle overs, an element the USA T20 middle-order has desperately needed. With the World Cup approaching next year, selectors would be wise to keep him firmly in their plans. Combined with his crafty off-spin, Dhillon makes a strong case for inclusion.

Unmukt Chand

Once considered the next big thing in Indian cricket, Chand's international debut was anticipated as a certainty. However, since announcing himself to the world with a dominant century in the U19 World Cup final against Australia 13 years ago, his journey has been marked by constant disappointment. Over a decade later, not only has he missed out on an India cap, but even in America, cricketing success has remained elusive. Chand's story exemplifies the harsh realities of professional sport, where controlling the controllables may not always be enough.

Unmukt Chand seeks to reignite his career in the MLC.

Chand has done just that in his first three years in America. Despite establishing himself as the highest run-scorer in the first three years of the Minor League, he has been repeatedly overlooked for the national side. Chand responded to his World Cup non-selection with a couple of match-winning half centuries for the LA Knight Riders last year, but even that did not earn him a spot in the USA A setup. With the T20 World Cup early next year, this season of MLC could be a defining moment for the 32-year-old.

Mohammad Mohsin

Since arriving in the U.S. in early 2022, the former Peshawar Zalmi leg-spinner has arguably been the best in his discipline across American cricket. His rise has not been limited to just the MLC, where he rose to prominence with a captivating 4 for 8 against the LA Knight Riders in the league's inaugural game, followed by another four-wicket haul that dismantled the Unicorns last season. What distinguishes him is not just his statistics, but his conviction, which is praised by coaches around the world. In addition to being the bowling mainstay for TSK, that trust has earned him opportunities in ILT20 and the CPL.

Mohammad Mohsin's leg-spin could be a game-changer.

Standing at 6'3", Mohsin's leg-spin deliveries are faster through the air than most in the game. His googlies break at sharp angles. Now that Mohsin has qualified, the selectors face a decision between him and the young leg spinner Yasir Mohammad, who has largely been a benchwarmer for the national team for a long time. The choice will be between Yasir's potential and Mohsin's comprehensive skill and experience. Incorporating Mohsin into the USA setup should be an obvious choice for the selectors. Having completed a challenging three-year journey, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional command over his craft, a testament to his talent and perseverance.