The USA cricket team has announced its squad for the upcoming five-match T20 series against Canada, making significant changes by including former New Zealand all-rounder Corey Anderson and Indian spinner Harmeet Singh. However, the omission of former India U-19 World Cup-winning captain Unmukt Chand has raised eyebrows.
Unmukt Chand’s Omission Raises Eyebrows
Despite Unmukt Chand’s commendable performances in the Minor League (MiLC), where he amassed over 1500 runs in 45 matches and topped the run charts in competition history, the selectors opted to drop him from the squad. Chand’s consistent performances in domestic T20 competitions and practice matches were not enough to secure his spot in the team.
In contrast, Corey Anderson, who moved to the USA in 2020, is poised to make his international debut for the country after impressing in domestic T20 competitions. Anderson’s stellar run, with over 900 runs in 28 games, earned him a place in the squad for the Canada series, enhancing his chances of representing the USA in the T20 World Cup.
Spinner Harmeet Singh, known for his U-19 heroics in the 2012 edition, has been named in the 15-man squad following his success with the MiLC side Seattle Thunderbolts. Singh’s leadership led the Seattle Thunderbolts to victory in 2022, and his prowess earned him recognition as the number one domestic draft pick in the Major League Cricket (MLC).
The USA squad for the Canada T20 series features notable names such as Monank Patel (captain), Aaron Jones (vice-captain), Jessy Singh, Saurabh Netravalkar, and Milind Kumar. Former Canada captain Nitish Kumar will also make his return to international cricket after joining the USA team in 2021.
While Corey Anderson and Harmeet Singh’s inclusion brings experience and skill to the USA squad, the omission of Unmukt Chand reminds us of the competitive nature of international cricket selection.
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