The USA Men’s Cricket team has unveiled a revamped squad for their upcoming five-match T20I series against Canada. This selection signals a new era for American cricket, with a wave of exciting new players joining the fold.
Corey Anderson leads charge
One of the most notable inclusions is former New Zealand all-rounder Corey Anderson. After a five-year international hiatus, the 33-year-old is set for a comeback, having impressed in domestic T20 tournaments since his move to the USA in 2020. His prolific run-scoring and handy bowling make him a valuable asset.
Harmeet Singh rewarded
Another exciting addition is Harmeet Singh, a former India U19 player who has shone in American domestic circuits. He led his team, the Seattle Thunderbolts, to victory in the 2022 MiLC tournament and was subsequently drafted as the number one pick.
Joining him from the Thunderbolts is Andries Gous, a player with experience in high-profile tournaments like the Abu Dhabi T10 and the ILT20. His South African teammate, pace-bowling all-rounder Shadley Van Schalkwyk, also finds a place in the squad.
Consistent Performers Earn Call-Ups
Several players have been rewarded for their consistent performances in the MiLC. Batsman Milind Kumar, with over 1100 runs in 35 innings, and Nitish Kumar, a former Canadian captain who switched allegiances in 2021, have earned their spots. Nitish Kumar’s selection comes as a surprise to some, with established names like Unmukt Chand missing out.
Familiar Faces Remain in USA T20 squad
While the squad boasts a fresh look, some experienced players retain their positions. Monank Patel will lead the side alongside his deputy Aaron Jones. Big-hitting Steven Taylor and the wily veteran Gajanand Singh are also included.
Interestingly, the USA squad features a spin-heavy attack with four finger spinners: Nostush Kenjige returning to T20Is after six years, all-rounder Nisarg Patel, and Usman Rafiq. Seamer Saurabh Netravalkar and Jessy Singh will share pace-bowling duties alongside Van Schalkwyk.
Notable Omissions ft Unmukt Chand
Unmukt Chand, despite topping the MiLC run charts with over 1500 runs, finds himself surprisingly overlooked. Similarly, Shayan Jahangir, the USA’s leading scorer in the recent 50-Over World Cup Qualifiers, and Shehan Jayasuriya, who missed out due to fitness concerns, are also absent.
A Look Ahead
This revamped USA squad is brimming with potential. The series against Canada will be a crucial test for these new faces as they aim to solidify their places in the national team and stake their claim for a spot in the upcoming World Cup.
USA T20 Squad: Monank Patel (captain), Aaron Jones (vice captain), Corey Anderson, Gajanand Singh, Jessy Singh, Saurabh Netravalkar, Nisarg Patel, Steven Taylor, Andries Gous, Harmeet Singh, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Nostush Kenjige, Milind Kumar, Nitish Kumar, Usman Rafiq.
USA Squad: Monank Patel (captain), Aaron Jones (vice captain), Corey Anderson, Gajanand Singh, Jessy Singh, Saurabh Netravalkar, Nisarg Patel, Steven Taylor, Andries Gous, Harmeet Singh, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Nostush Kenjige, Milind Kumar, Nitish Kumar, Usman Rafiq
