Corey Anderson’s Comeback to International Cricket
Former Blackcaps all-rounder Corey Anderson has been named in the 15-man USA squad for the 5-match T20I series against Canada. Anderson’s inclusion marks a significant moment in his career, signaling his comeback to international cricket after a hiatus of more than 5 years.
Anderson, now 33 years old, moved to America in 2020 and has since showcased stellar performances in domestic T20 competitions. Amassing over 900 runs in 28 innings with an impressive strike rate of 146 in the Minor League (MiLC), Anderson has proven his worth as a formidable player in the American cricket scene.
Fresh Faces in the USA Squad
Anderson is not the only fresh face in the USA squad. A slew of players who immigrated to America following the announcement of MLC (Major League Cricket) now stand eligible to represent the country. Among them are former players like Harmeet Singh, Milind Kumar, Andries Gous, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, and Nitish Kumar.
Harmeet Singh’s Remarkable Journey
Former India U19 player Harmeet Singh has been rewarded for his relentless performances in domestic competitions. Leading his MiLC team, the Seattle Thunderbolts, to victory in 2022 showcased Singh’s leadership qualities and cricketing prowess. His consistent performances led him to become the number 1 domestic draft pick in MLC history, representing the Seattle Orcas.
Milind Kumar’s Consistency
Former Delhi and RCB batsman Milind Kumar’s inclusion in the squad is attributed to his consistent performances in the MiLC. With over 1100 runs in 35 innings, Kumar has been a standout performer for the Texas Super Kings, showcasing his batting prowess in various competitions.
Nitish Kumar’s Emotional Return
Ex-Canada captain Nitish Kumar is set to make an emotional return to international cricket against his former side. Crossing the border in 2021, Kumar’s journey back to the international scene highlights his determination and passion for the sport.
Team Dynamics and Selection Choices
Monank Patel will lead the side alongside his deputy Aaron Jones, with experienced players like Steven Taylor and Gajanand Singh forming the core of the team. Interestingly, USA has opted for a spin-heavy bowling attack, including Nostush Kenjige, Nisarg Patel, and Usman Rafiq, alongside pace bowlers Saurabh Netravalkar and Jessy Singh.
Notable Omissions and Selection Dilemmas
Despite prolific performances in the MiLC, players like Unmukt Chand and Shayan Jahangir find themselves left out of the squad. Chand’s impressive run tally of over 1500 runs in 45 innings couldn’t secure him a spot in the team, raising questions about the selection criteria. Similarly, the absence of Shayan Jahangir, USA’s highest scorer in the last 50 Over World Cup Qualifiers, has sparked discussions within the American cricket circles.
Conclusion
As Corey Anderson prepares to make his comeback in international cricket, the USA squad presents a mix of experienced players and emerging talents. With a blend of youth and experience, the team aims to make a mark in the upcoming T20I series against Canada. CricAdvisor continues to monitor and analyze the developments in the world of cricket
