From MLC to MiLC: Key Players that Bring Experience and Firepower This Season
As the 2025 Minor League Cricket season approaches, the quality of talent looks higher than ever as a plethora of in-form and battle-tested stars from Major League Cricket – the premier T20 League in U.S Cricket ecosystem – are set to feature this season, bringing with them an invaluable treasure of experience, class and talent that is set to enrich Minor League Cricket and ultimately cricket in the U.S.
The MLC players who will be part of various teams across 4 divisions in the Minor League Cricket will elevate the league’s quality and competitiveness. They will be key to their respective teams’ fortunes having already delivered match-winning knocks, key breakthroughs, and leadership under pressure situations in the recently concluded third season of Cognizant Major League Cricket.
While there are many MLC players set to feature in this year’s Minor League Cricket season, here are the standouts that are expected to make a big difference for their respective teams:
Monank Patel – Atlanta Lightning
MLC 2025’s Domestic Player of the Tournament, USA Captain, Monank scored a league-leading 478 runs for MI New York, cementing his stature not only as MLC’s top batter, but also representing the strength of U.S cricketing talent. His presence at the top of the order for Atlanta Lightning this season brings valuable leadership and instantly adds both firepower and stability.
Rushil Ugarkar – East Bay Blazers
Awarded the Best U23 Player of the Tournament, Ugarkar impressed with his composure at crucial situations during MLC 2025. The 22-year-old showed his temperament and cool head defending 12 off the ultimate over in the Championship Final against powerhouses like Glenn Maxwell and Glenn Phillips. He’ll be a name to watch this MiLC season as he continues to grow as a reliable medium-pace option.
Saurabh Netravalkar – Silicon Valley Strikers
One of the most respected figures in U.S. cricket, Netravalkar brings years of national and international experience. MLC’s leading wicket taker in 2024, his control, calm demeanor, leadership, and match IQ will hugely benefit the Silicon Valley Strikers and will be vital in the MiLC environment where young bowlers can learn from his discipline.
Shubham Ranjane – Metroplex Tracers
Shubham Ranjane was one of the most consistent batters in MLC 2025, scoring 268 runs at an impressive average of 67.00, making him one of the most reliable domestic performers for the Texas Super Kings. Whether holding the innings together or accelerating when needed, Ranjane’s composure stood out in pressure situations. Now with the Metroplex Tracers, he’ll be expected to anchor the middle order and provide both experience and stability.
Corey Anderson – Kings XI Dallas
Though Corey Anderson’s 2025 MLC season was cut short due to injury after just a few games for the San Francisco Unicorns, his international experience and powerful all-round skills remain a huge asset. When fully fit, Corey’s ability to change games with both bat and ball will be invaluable for newcomers Kings XI Dallas this MiLC season. His presence alone adds experience and depth to the squad as they aim to make a mark in their inaugural season.
Sanjay Krishnamurthi – East Bay Blazers
For the San Francisco Unicorns, Sanjay Krishnamurthi quietly became a key contributor in MLC 2025, racking up 253 runs, including a top score of 92. His innings often came when the team needed to rebuild after early losses or shift momentum, showcasing his ability to read the game and respond accordingly. Playing for the East Bay Blazers this season of the MiLC, Krishnamurthi is poised to be a vital part of the top order offering both fluency and grit.
Tajinder Singh – Chicago Kingsmen
Tajinder’s explosive 95 off 35 balls for MI New York in a league-stage game against Seattle Orcas was one of MLC 2025’s most memorable innings. The MINY All-rounder smashed 8 massive sixes in a 158-run partnership for the third wicket with his skipper Nicholas Pooran. With that kind of firepower, Chicago Kingsmen will rely on him to close out games and add muscle to the middle order.
Andries Gous – Kings XI Dallas
A reliable middle-order presence for Washington Freedom since MLC’s inaugural season, Andries Gous scored 216 runs in MLC 2025 and demonstrated his ability to rotate strike and clear the ropes when needed. His experience in domestic and international T20 leagues adds a layer of composure that will benefit Kings XI Dallas tremendously serving as a stabilizing figure in pressure situations and a mentor for younger batters.
Obus Pienaar – Kings XI Dallas
Gous’ MLC teammate Obus Pienaar provided a handy finishing touch for Washington Freedom during the MLC 2025. He often came in during the final overs to score quick but crucial cameos for the Freedom. His presence will be a strategic asset for Kings XI Dallas’ middle-order, particularly when there is a need for late-innings flourish.
Unmukt Chand – Kings XI Dallas
Although Los Angeles Knight Riders had a below-par season, their dashing opener Unmukt Chand had an excellent MLC 2025, scoring 302 runs, including a standout 86 off 58 balls against Seattle Orcas in a must-win game in Grand Prairie. Known for his classic drives and calm temperament, Chand brings not just runs but invaluable leadership for the Kings XI Dallas.
Harmeet Singh – Dallas Xforia Giants
While his opportunities in MLC 2025 were limited, Harmeet Singh’s left-arm orthodox spin has been a valuable asset for Seattle Orcas since the inaugural season of MLC. His brilliant economy of just 7 across three MLC seasons proves his control and ability to restrict the flow of runs in crucial situations. For Dallas Xforia Giants, Harmeet adds depth, flexibility, and a cool head in pressure moments — traits that can make the difference in closely contested matches.
Shadley Van Schalkwyk – Seattle Thunderbolts
Shadley van Schalkwyk might be 37, but he still knows how to get the job done. Playing for the Los Angeles Knight Riders in MLC 2025, he was one of the few consistent performers in a team that struggled overall, picking up 14 wickets and regularly breaking partnerships. His experience really showed in the way he kept his cool under pressure and used smart variations to keep batsmen guessing. Now with the Seattle Thunderbolts for the upcoming Minor League season, Shadley will be counted on not just for his bowling skills but also for the steady presence he brings to the locker room. If the Thunderbolts want to push deep this year, having a seasoned pro like Shadley will definitely help.
Other Notable MLC Players to Watch in MiLC 2025
A few other Major League Cricket players who may have missed the spotlight but are expected to bring valuable experience and skills to their Minor League Cricket teams include Liam Plunkett, Jasdeep Singh, Matthew Tromp, Karthik Gattepalli, Nosthush Kenjige, Ehsan Adil, and Calvin Savage. Their proven track records and familiarity with the U.S. cricket scene make them important assets capable of turning games and delivering in crucial situations.
The Bigger Picture
The 2025 Minor League Cricket season promises to be a thrilling showcase of emerging talent and seasoned prowess. With an impressive influx of Major League Cricket stars bringing experience, skill, and leadership, the competition is set to reach new heights. Fans can look forward to a vibrant, highly competitive season where these players will not only light up the field but also inspire the next generation of American cricketers. As the MiLC season kicks off, the blend of youth and experience across the teams ensures cricket in the U.S. is on a promising upward trajectory.
