MI New York Announces Nine International Signings Ahead of Inaugural Edition of MLC
Kieron Pollard also lead MI Emirates in ILT20 | Source: Twitter
MI New York, on Wednesday (June 14) announced the signing of nine international players ahead of the inaugural edition of the highly-anticipated Major League Cricket (MLC) 2023, set to be played from July 13.
They have opted to keep their core group intact, consisting of players who have either represented the franchise in the past or are currently participating in different T20 tournaments, including the Indian Premier League, ILT20 and SA20.
The captaincy duties for the franchise have been entrusted to the Mumbai Indians legend, Kieron Pollard, bringing his immense experience and leadership skills to the forefront. Alongside him, the team has secured the services of the dynamic Caribbean batter, Nicholas Pooran, and the star Afghan spinner, Rashid Khan, who also leads MI Cape Town in the SA20 league.
Additionally, they have secured the services of New Zealand pacer Trent Boult, who previously played for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL and has now joined the Rajasthan Royals. Moreover, they have also added the Australian duo of Tim David, known for his explosive batting, and Jason Behrendorff, who is currently part of the Mumbai Indians.
Adding to their roster will be the star South Africa batter Dewald Brevis, alongside the pace sensation Kagiso Rabada and Namibia all-rounder David Wiese, who has previously represented South Africa.
Mr. Akash Ambani, the owner of Mumbai Indians, shared his excitement for the upcoming tournament and the team's endeavor to expand its wings across different leagues. Notably, Mumbai Indians already boast teams in ILT20, SA20, and the recently launched Major League Cricket, based in the United States.
Here’s what he said in the statement:
“We are thrilled to unveil team MI New York in the upcoming Major League Cricket season. Stalwart Pollard is leading the team which has international superstars Rashid Khan, Nicholas Pooran, Trent Boult, and Kagiso Rabada.”
“It is an extraordinary line-up of youth, experience, and power. Further, we have exciting talent in the form of Tim David and Brevis, while Jason Behrendorff and David Wiese are proven performers. Combined with the exceptional skills of our local US players, we are confident that MI New York will raise the bar of competition in the cricket ecosystem of the US. We are dedicated to providing our fans with the quintessential MI brand of cricket.”
Earlier, at the MLC draft held on 19th March 2023, MI New York drafted 9 players - the first two USA-born players in the form of former captain Steven Taylor, all-rounder Nosthush Kenjige, current USA captain Monank Patel along with wicketkeeper Shayan Jahangir and fast bowler Kyle Phillip.
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