The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_League_Cricket">Major League Cricket</a>, MLC 2024 is knocking at the doorstep, as the second edition of the tournament begins on Saturday. With its inaugural season played in 2023, the MI New York were the standout performers in the league and went on to be the champions under skipper Nick Pooran, who played a stunning hand in their title victory. With some very crucial signings, especially with the drafting of several Australian maestros ahead of the 2nd edition, the MLC will be a contest worth witnessing. With a new set of players, along with the retained players from the first season, let?s take a look at the Top 5 batters who stand a chance to score the highest runs ahead of MLC 2024.



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#top-5-batters-who-stand-a-chance-to-score-the-highest-runs-ahead-of-mlc-2024">Top 5 batters who stand a chance to score the highest runs ahead of MLC 2024</a><ul><li class=""><a href="#marcus-stoinis">Marcus Stoinis</a></li><li class=""><a href="#quinton-de-kock">Quinton de Kock</a></li><li class=""><a href="#j-fraser-mc-gurk">J.Fraser-McGurk</a></li><li class=""><a href="#nicholas-pooran">Nicholas Pooran</a></li><li class=""><a href="#travis-head">Travis Head</a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="top-5-batters-who-stand-a-chance-to-score-the-highest-runs-ahead-of-mlc-2024">Top 5 batters who stand a chance to score the highest runs ahead of MLC 2024</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="marcus-stoinis">Marcus Stoinis</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Marcus-Stoinis.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142366" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Stoinis roped in by Texas Super Kings for MLC 2024 (image: CricTracker)</figcaption></figure>
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The Texas Super Kings have drafted the big Australian for their 2024 MLC campaign. The last time semifinalists had already had quite some spectacular performers in their team sheets, while Stoinis will be an in-form inclusion to the side. The big Australian was a commanding performer in the Indian Premier League and also performed overwhelmingly for his national side in the T20 World Cup. Stoinis, who has evolved to be a middle-order batter, letting go of his role as a finisher has helped sides retain him, and his evolving bowling skills are a cherry on top. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="quinton-de-kock">Quinton de Kock</h3>



The South African veteran, who announced his retirement from the Tests and ODIs, has been a constant surprise in the shortest format of the game. He has been a part of every global T20 league since he stopped featuring for the Proteas. Playing for the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle_Orcas">Seattle Orcas</a>, QDK scored 264 runs, averaging a brilliant 44 in the 7 games of the tournament. He is one of the most worthy retentions of the MLC 2024, and his contributions are supposed to be of great value to his team. In short, the veteran can once again be found among the top scorers of the league. 



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="j-fraser-mc-gurk">J.Fraser-McGurk</h3>



The hard-hitting youngster from Australia is now gaining the status of a world-class T20 batter due to his fearless stride and fast run-scoring in the powerplay, for which he has often received praise and recognition from players around the world. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Fraser-McGurk.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142364" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">IPL done, MLC next on the cards for young McGurk (Image: Cricket Australia)</figcaption></figure>
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 Featuring for the Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2024, McGurk was one of the very reasons the Capitals bounced back in the later stages of the competition. Though he was not the most consistent performer, he added fire to the innings whenever he got going in the powerplay. Such will be his role, as the 21-year-old is about to make his debut in yet another league featuring players of global standard. Picked by the San Francisco Unicorns, McGruk will be most probably seen alongside Finn Allen, and together they can be the most explosive opening pair of MLC 2024. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="nicholas-pooran">Nicholas Pooran</h3>



The West Indies wk-bat has been a constant performer over the recent few years, in whichever league he has played in. From playing in the IPL for Lucknow Super Giants to making vital contributions to his team?s score in the T20 World Cup, Pooran is one of the most reliable batters to keep your cards on. The small-packet dynamite is often seen hitting massive sixes; it was his blistering knock of 137 runs on just 55 balls that included 13 sixes, which took MI New York over the line, and they went on to be the champions of the debut season. Not only MI New York but the entire cricket world would hope to witness such brilliance from the Windies batter. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="travis-head">Travis Head</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Travis-Head-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142363" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Head all set to feature for Washington Freedom (Image: Times of India)</figcaption></figure>
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The Washington Freedom have reformed their squad with several inclusions, especially from Australia and New Zealand. They named Steven Smith the captain, alongside drafting players like Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rachin_Ravindra">Rachin Ravindra</a>, and Lockie Ferguson. Head has been the proclaimed best batter in the world since his heroics in the World Cup final for Australia last year. Head?s century earned immense recognition for him, and he went on to feature for IPL runner-up Sunrisers Hyderabad and was their highest scorer, scoring above 550 runs. His inclusion in the MLC can only add a great batting scope to the Freedom squad as well as the Major League Cricket. He can be the first choice to be the most probable highest run-getter in this edition of the MLC.

Top 5 batters who can be the highest run-getters in MLC 2024

top-5-batters-who-can-be-the-highest-run-getters-in-mlc-2024

The Major League Cricket, or MLC, is one of America's biggest tournaments of the sport. Inaugurated in 2023, the first season saw 6 teams in the competition who will also participate in the 2nd edition of the league in 2024. The inaugural season saw many twists on their route to the finals, as the group stages featured 6 teams, of which the MI New York were ranked fourth behind the Seattle Orcas, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Freedom_(cricket)">Washington Fire</a>, and Texas Super Kings, all of which advanced into the knockouts in the first season. However, then began MI New York?s one-sided domination of the MLC knockouts, as they won on 3 occasions till the finals, where Pooran dominated against the Seattle Orcas side, who were unbeaten till the finals but had to bow down their heads in front of Pooran?s heroic antics. With several changes in the squads of different teams of the Major League Cricket, let?s have a good look at who can be the probable contenders for the cup. 



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#top-contenders-for-the-mlc-2024-trophy">Top Contenders for the MLC 2024 Trophy</a><ul><li class=""><a href="#mi-new-york">MI New York</a></li><li class=""><a href="#seattle-orcas">Seattle Orcas</a></li><li class=""><a href="#san-francisco-unicorns">San Francisco Unicorns </a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="top-contenders-for-the-mlc-2024-trophy">Top Contenders for the MLC 2024 Trophy</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="mi-new-york">MI New York</h3>



With not many changes to their squad from their last year?s campaign, the defending champions can be one of the favorites to retain their grip over the trophy. Under Kieron Pollard?s leadership, once again, MI New York will be seen as the prime contender for the cup. A stunning bunch of batters, including Nicholas Pooran, Tim David, the USA skipper Monank Patel, and skipper Pollard. However, the power-packed side lays its heart in the all-rounders, who are world-class talents featuring in all global leagues of the world. With the likes of Romario Shepherd and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rashid_Khan">Rashid Khan</a>, MI New York will have the best probable bowling lineup of the tournament that comprises Rabada, Boult, and Nortje?s brilliance and experience. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/MLC-2023-MI-New-York-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142426" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">MI New York the champions of the debut season (Image: ESPNcricinfo)</figcaption></figure>
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 With the Afghan skipper having led his national side to their first-ever semi-final just weeks ago, the beginning of the MLC, he will be their most dependable option to look at in their quest for defending the title. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="seattle-orcas">Seattle Orcas</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Seattle-Orcas-1024x534.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142427" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The runners-up will be looking forward to win the title this time (Image: Cricket Times)</figcaption></figure>
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The runners-up from the last season of the MLC will look to fancy their chances at the title this time around. The runners-up too did not make many changes to the squad, as the team would still rely on South African batters Quinton de Kock and Henrich Klaasen. The two veteran batters are informed without any doubt, while Aaron Jones will be an equally convincing addition alongside all-rounders Imad Wasim and Bracewell, who are all set to feature for the first time in the MLC. With the likes of Burger and McCoy in the Seattle lineup led by the experience of Wayne Parnell, the Seattle Orcas might look to have another terrific run in the tournament just like the edition of MLC 2023. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="san-francisco-unicorns">San Francisco Unicorns </h3>



The Unicorns did not have the best of starts to their MLC legacy, as they failed to advance into the knockouts of the MLC 2024. However, with several additions to the squad, they are a new unit and may look forward to turning their fortunes in the Cup. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Cummins-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142428" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Unicorns robe in Cummins for the MLC 2024 (Image: Sportstar - The Hindu)</figcaption></figure>
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 Despite the inclusion of Australian ODI and test captain Pat Cummins, Corey Anderson has been picked to serve the role of a skipper for the San Francisco Unicorns. A very worthy and power-packed batting unit that is all set to fire with the in-form Allen, Fraser McGurk, and Rutherford. All three will be seen giving their bests alongside Short and Inglis, who are also about to make their debut in the competition. Cummins will lead their bowling unit alongside Haris Rauf and Matt Henry, and owing to the pitches of the United States, these bowlers who produce immense variations can be an asset in the Cup for the side. They led by Anderson and guided by Cummins will look to go beyond teams like the Washington Freedom and the Texas Super Kings, who, despite having a great bunch of players, might not have the quality to advance into the knockouts of the game.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-5-international-stars-who-retired-from-international-t20s-post-world-cup-2024/">Top 5 international stars who retired from international T20s post-World Cup 2024</a>

Top 3 contenders for the MLC 2024 trophy

top-3-contenders-for-the-mlc-2024-trophy

The second season of the MLC, the MLC 2024 will be underway from the 6th of July, and after the first clash between the two finalists from the final of the MLC 2023, the last edition semi-finalists, the Texas Super Kings, will take on the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Angeles_Knight_Riders">Los Angeles Knight Riders</a> in the second game of the season. The LAKR contemporaries in the Indian Premier League, the KKR, won under the leadership of a new mentor. However, their squad doesn?t look the best among the teams in Major League Cricket, as the Texas Super Kings can be one-sided dominators in the match-up over a Sunil Narine-led Knight Riders side. The match will be an overnight fixture to be played at Dallas; the pitch, though, was one of the worst tracks to play on during the T20 World Cup. 



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#lets-take-a-look-at-the-top-5-players-who-should-be-a-must-pick-in-the-tsk-vs-lakr-clash">Let?s take a look at the top 5 players who should be a must-pick in the TSK vs. LAKR clash.</a><ul><li class=""><a href="#david-miller">David Miller </a></li><li class=""><a href="#marcus-stoinis">Marcus Stoinis </a></li><li class=""><a href="#naveen-ul-haq">Naveen ul-Haq </a></li><li class=""><a href="#sunil-narine">Sunil Narine </a></li><li class=""><a href="#andre-russell">Andre Russell </a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="lets-take-a-look-at-the-top-5-players-who-should-be-a-must-pick-in-the-tsk-vs-lakr-clash">Let?s take a look at the top 5 players who should be a must-pick in the TSK vs. LAKR clash.</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="david-miller">David Miller </h3>



The Protea middle-order batter has been a great finisher in the shortest format of the game. Miller has been a consistent part of every Global T20 platform, and his experience has been the most among several players who compete in the MLC. Playing his first season with the Los Angeles Knight Riders, Miller will be seen deploying the role of a finisher in the set-up alongside Andre Russell. After a controversial catch by Suryakumar Yadav that cost them the World Cup, the veteran batter will be looking to restore his lost value with his performance in the Major League Cricket tournament. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="marcus-stoinis">Marcus Stoinis </h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Marcus-Stoinis-New-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142504" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Stoinis drafted in by the Texas Super Kings (Image: Mint)</figcaption></figure>
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Marcus Stoinis, the big all-rounder from Australia, has been a great player of the shortest format. Stoinis, known for his muscular build, is one of the cleanest hitters on the cricket ball. Though Stoinis has often been deployed in the role of a middle-order occasionally by several franchise-level teams, even he has fulfilled everyone?s expectations. Stoinis, who performed convincingly for LSG in the IPL and then later played a vital role for the Aussies, is drafted in for the first time by the Texas Super Kings, and he will be seen playing a very crucial role, making him a must-pick from the match-up. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="naveen-ul-haq">Naveen ul-Haq </h3>



Afghan medium-pacer, who came back from international retirement to feature for his side in the T20 World Cup, went on to be a dominant performer alongside the tournament?s highest wicket-taker, Farooqi. With Naveen?s wide variations and sublime accuracy, he can be placed as the Texas Super Kings' lead pacer and will be a must-pick who might go on to pick the major wickets for his side in the MLC 2024. 



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-5-batters-who-can-be-the-highest-run-getters-in-mlc-2024/">Top 5 batters who can be the highest run-getters in MLC 2024</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="sunil-narine">Sunil Narine </h3>



The T20 veteran Windies all-rounder, Sunil Narine, was the most valuable player of the tournament playing for the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024. He was the major contributor to KKR?s IPL triumph and will be once again seen representing the Los Angeles Knight Riders as their skipper. Expected to do well with both the bat and ball, Narine might also be seen in the role of an opener for the LAKR. He can be a rescue player with the LAKR and will be a very vital inclusion among the crucial players for MLC 2024. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Sunil-Narine-MLC-1024x534.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142505" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">IPL's MVP now the skipper for Los Angeles Knight Riders (Image: Cricket Times)</figcaption></figure>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="andre-russell">Andre Russell </h3>



Russell though has not been able to serve his high standards to any team in the past few years, yet a world-class all-rounder like him is sure to deliver on the field. Russell has always stood tall either with bat or ball and will be expected to do so for the Los Angeles Knight Riders as well. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Russell-jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142506" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(Image: SportsMax)</figcaption></figure>
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 Playing in the role of a finisher, he is known for his colossal sixes and wicket-taking ability and is often regarded as one of the best all-rounders in the world. Playing at the MLC 2024, Russell will be a must-pick player not only in the match but also the entire tournament.

MLC 2024: 5 players who are a must-pick for Texas Super Kings vs Los Angeles Knight Riders clash

mlc-2024-5-players-who-are-a-must-pick-for-texas-super-kings-vs-los-angeles-knight-riders-clash

The MLC 2024 is all set to be underway from tomorrow, and the two finalists of the inaugural season, the MI New York and Seattle Orcas, will play the opening match of the second season. The Major League Cricket is one of the major cricket tournaments started in the United States. The first match will be played on the 6th of July at Church Street Park in Morrisville. The defending champions will be looking to defend their title against the runner-up Orcas, who might also be eyeing to avenge their loss in the finals of MLC 2023. Before the initiation of the first match, let?s take a good look at the top 5 inclusions from among players of either side who can be predicted to be the most essential players to change the course of the game. 



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#top-5-players-to-feature-in-miny-vs-seo-clash">Top 5 players to feature in MINY vs. SEO clash </a><ul><li class=""><a href="#quinton-de-kock">Quinton De Kock</a></li><li class=""><a href="#nicholas-pooran">Nicholas Pooran </a></li><li class=""><a href="#trent-boult">Trent Boult </a></li><li class=""><a href="#rashid-khan">Rashid Khan </a></li><li class=""><a href="#anrich-nortje">Anrich Nortje </a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="top-5-players-to-feature-in-miny-vs-seo-clash">Top 5 players to feature in MINY vs. SEO clash </h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="quinton-de-kock">Quinton De Kock</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/QDK-for-MLC-2024-jpg.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142509" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">QDK for Seattle Orcas in MLC (Image: SportsMax)</figcaption></figure>
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The veteran South African batter?s international career is now at a standstill, as no one knows if he will be seen further in the Protea shirt. QDK played a great hand in South Africa?s success in the recently concluded T20 World Cup. The opening batsman and the highest scorer for the Seattle Orcas in the opening season will be leading the Seattle Orcas batting with his commanding form and immense experience. De Kock has had a great experience playing across several global leagues from around the world. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="nicholas-pooran">Nicholas Pooran </h3>



The West Indian pocket dynamite has been a great inclusion among cricket franchises around several global leagues. After concluding a brilliant season with the Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2024, he tried with all his might to provide his national side stability in the middle order. Pooran?s antics will be expected in this season as well, as MINY will hope for his competence to lead them to their title defence. Pooran's unforgettable innings in the MLC 2023 final will remain to be written in golden words in the history of the tournament, as he single-handedly guided MI New York to a win in the inaugural season. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Nicky-P-1024x569.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142510" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nicholas Pooran for MI New York in MLC (Image: The Indian Express)</figcaption></figure>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="trent-boult">Trent Boult </h3>



The legendary Kiwi pacer has been an asset to all franchise teams; he has represented several teams across global tournaments. Boult, who has recently concluded his international career, has had a wonderful season with the Royals and showed dominance in the few games New Zealand played in the T20 World Cup. 



Boult under the pace-favoring pitches of America will be an asset for the side. He will be once again given the role of a bowler with the new ball, as he often has this ability to strike with the new ball. 



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="rashid-khan">Rashid Khan </h3>



The Afghan skipper led by example, as he guided Afghanistan to their first-ever semi-final in a major ICC tournament. The skipper led from the front with 14 wickets in 8 games for his national side, though they crashed out of the semis against South Africa. The spinner, aged 25, has been a star in the cricketing world as he has picked over 588 wickets in T20 leagues around the world. With expecting similar contributions from the Afghan skipper, the MI New York will look to place him as their first-choice all-rounder, with his slight expertise with the bat as well. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="anrich-nortje">Anrich Nortje </h3>



Nortje has been a real star in Protea's success at the T20 World Cup in the United States. The star pacer bowled to the conditions, which are not to change much in the States when MI New York takes on <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle_Orcas">Seattle Orcas</a>. 



Nortje will feature alongside countrymate Rabada, and T20 veterans like Boult, and all-rounders Rashid and Shepherd. Playing alongside these greats of the game will add to his form, and his prolific form will only be enhanced in the MLC 2024 at the star-studded MI New York dugout.

MLC 2024: 5 players who are a must-pick for MI New York vs. Seattle Orcas clash

mlc-2024-5-players-who-are-a-must-pick-for-mi-new-york-vs-seattle-orcas-clash

With only a day left to the initiation of the second season of the Major League Cricket with MLC 2024, several teams have fancied their chances with major changes to their squad. Drafting in several players, the 6 teams look more or less different from the inaugural season. The United States pitches have been reported to be highly favoring the bowlers, as is evident after the T20 World Cup, which showed immense domination of bowlers, and hence the men with the willow seem to be in trouble ahead of MLC 2024. Let?s take a good look at the top 5 best probable bowlers who can stand a chance to be the highest wicket-getters in the tournament. 



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#top-5-probable-wicket-takers-of-mlc-2024">Top 5 probable wicket-takers of MLC 2024</a><ul><li class=""><a href="#naveen-ul-haq">Naveen ul-Haq</a></li><li class=""><a href="#trent-boult">Trent Boult </a></li><li class=""><a href="#anrich-nortje">Anrich Nortje </a></li><li class=""><a href="#pat-cummins">Pat Cummins</a></li><li class=""><a href="#rashid-khan">Rashid Khan </a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="top-5-probable-wicket-takers-of-mlc-2024">Top 5 probable wicket-takers of MLC 2024</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="naveen-ul-haq">Naveen ul-Haq</h3>



The Afghan pacer has been Afghanistan?s second-best quickie alongside the tournament's highest-wicket taker, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fazalhaq_Farooqi">Farooqi</a>. Naveen is a world-class talent, and he has proved his worth repeatedly, just like he did in his encounter against Bangladesh that earned Afghanistan their semi-final spot. Naveen can surely be one of the most standout bowlers to feature in the MLC for the Texas Super Kings. All that is to be seen is if Naveen can perform according to his standards and find himself among the top wicket-takers of the tournament. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Naveen-ul-Haq.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142521" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(Image: Sportskeeda)</figcaption></figure>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="trent-boult">Trent Boult </h3>



The 34-year-old Kiwi veteran has announced his retirement from international T20s and hence will be keeping his focus on franchise-level cricket. Playing for the MI New York team in MLC 2024, Boult will be seen as their lead pacer, though they have the likes of Rabada and Nortje. His wicket-taking ability with the new ball has been praised over many years, especially his performance in the powerplay. Boult, like several times before, will surely be seen among the favorite bowlers of the tournament. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="anrich-nortje">Anrich Nortje </h3>



South Africa?s evolving fast bowler has been a star in the T20 World Cup campaign, and his success seemed inevitable in the cup. Nortje, who did very well under pace-favoring pitches of the United States, is once again expected to excel in the MLC. Nortje will be playing for the MI New York this time and will be seen bowling mostly in the death overs alongside Khan and Rabada; hence, his efficiency would not be put to much of a threat. With him being the third bowler on our list from MI, New York, we can already anticipate how thrilling their bowling deck will be and how dominating they will be. 



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/mlc-2024-5-players-who-are-a-must-pick-for-mi-new-york-vs-seattle-orcas-clash/">MLC 2024: 5 players who are a must-pick for MI New York vs. Seattle Orcas clash</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="pat-cummins">Pat Cummins</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Cummins-1-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142522" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(Image: Sportstar - The Hindu)</figcaption></figure>
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Cummins is newly drafted into the MLC to spark his greatness in the tournament. Cummins is all set to feature for the Unicorns, as he will be seen leading their pace attack. Cummins, who was one of Australia?s best strike bowlers in their short World Cup campaign alongside Zampa, will be using the conditions at US to great use. Cummins picked a hat-trick against Bangladesh and went on to secure the same against Afghanistan until Warner dropped a sitter in the hat-trick ball. Playing for the Unicorns, Cummins can be foreseen as one of the star performers who is set to feature in the MLC 2024. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="rashid-khan">Rashid Khan </h3>



Khan has always been a special inclusion for T20 franchise teams. However, Rashid did lack his prime in some recent years, though he bounced back during his campaign in the T20 World Cup for Afghanistan. He was simply in his best form; it seemed the US pitches were ideal for the star-spinner to bounce back. Khan will be seen playing for the MI New York and will be their most reliable spinner for not only their side but also the entire tournament. Rashid would once again be expected to serve the most with his antics, as he remains the only spinner in our list of top 5 bowling preferences.

Top 5 bowlers who can be the highest wicket-taker of MLC 2024

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The MLC 2024 is underway, and MI New York initiated their campaign with a comfortable victory over the Seattle Orcas in the tournament's opening game. However, in their second match against a reformed Washington Freedom side, they faced a major backlash earlier in the tournament. Ex-Australian captain <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Smith_(cricketer)">Steven Smith</a> has been signed in as the new skipper for Washington Freedom for MLC 2024. After a T20 World Cup squad snub, the veteran batter would be looking to prove his worth in the format. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Veterans-Antics-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142642" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Spectacular Smith commands in rain-affected chase (Image: myKhel)</figcaption></figure>
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 Washington Freedom won the toss and put the defending champions to bat on a sloppy track. The MINY side started on a weak note as their top-order tumbled with only Nicholas Pooran building a slight partnership alongside opener Clinton, who fell to Maxwell in the 8th over while looking to play an unconventional short. Nicholas Pooran was the pick of the batters for MI New York, scoring 44 runs. While big-hitters Tim David and Kieron Pollard failed to produce anything, it took a 15-ball, 31-run knock from Afghan skipper Rashid Khan that took the defending champions to a fighting total of 154. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/Khan-stars-with-the-Bat-this-time-for-MI-New-York-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142641" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Khan stars with the Bat this time for MI New York (Image: Cricbuzz.com)</figcaption></figure>
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ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-5-bowlers-who-can-be-the-highest-wicket-taker-of-mlc-2024/">Top 5 bowlers who can be the highest wicket-taker of MLC 2024</a> In reply to this, the Australian duo of skipper Steve Smith and, in form, Travis Head stepped in on the field for the Washington Freedom. The start was not convincing as Head fell to Ehsan Adil in the second over. Smith, alongside American World Cup star Gous, didn?t seem to get going until Nortje came to bowl in the powerplay. The Australian veteran took South Africa?s leading wicket-taker in the World Cup for 22 runs, hitting 2 fours and 2 sixes of him.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/07/WAF-MLC-2024-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-142640" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Smith and Gous guide WAF scoreboard to 4 runs over DLS par score (Image: Times of India)</figcaption></figure>
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 That is what got the Freedom scoreboard going, and Gous hit 2 consecutive boundaries of Rashid Khan to take Freedom to 55/1 in the 8th over when rain forced the players to head out of the ground. Lightning and thunder alongside dense showers denied further play, as the Washington Freedom had the final laugh as they secured a win over the defending champions with a 4-run advantage over the DLS par score. This is their first victory of the season under new skipper Steven Smith.

MLC 2024: Smith leads by example in Washington Freedom?s rain-hit victory over defending champions

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The wait for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to be over. The tournament will begin on 19th February, and the final will take place on 9th March. The India team, no doubt, will be one of the hot favourites to win the tournament, which will be played in a hybrid model. 
India will be playing all their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 games in Dubai. The Rohit Sharma-led side will be beginning their campaign against Bangladesh on 20th February, and, after that, will be playing Pakistan on 23rd February, followed by New Zealand on 2nd March. 
The departure date of India for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 also has been revealed. As per the reports in Times of India, it is learned that the Rohit Sharma-led side will be travelling to Dubai on 15th February. The reports added that more clarity on the same will come in the coming days. 
<h2>India won't be playing any warmup matches ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025</h2>
Not only this, it is learned that India also won't be playing any warmup matches ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This is because all the teams will be in Pakistan, and hence, it will be difficult for the International Cricket Council (ICC) to arrange the warmup match. 
The reports added that India team management is happy with the net session ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This is because they will be playing the three-match ODI series against England, which will begin on 6th February across three venues in India. 
Apart from this, it is reported that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 won't be having a captain photoshoot because of the different challenges along with the different arrivals of the team. This means that Rohit Sharma won't be travelling to Pakistan for this and will be staying in Dubai with the team. 
The opening ceremony of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be held in Lahore. There were talks of having the event in Karachi but the Pakistan Cricket Board decided to host it in Lahore.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-champions-trophy-2025-babar-azam-s-batting-position-decided-selectors-not-in-favour-of-giving-him-this-role-/#google_vignette">ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam's batting position decided; selectors not in favour of giving him this role</a>

India will be playing all their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 games in Dubai.

It is learned that India also won't be playing any warmup matches ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India to travel to Dubai on this date; unlikely to play warmup game

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India batter Shubman Gill has started his preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The premier batter has returned to nets for the white-ball practice as he was named in the Indian team for the ODI series against England and the ICC tournament. 
Shubman Gill has been under a lot of pressure for his poor outings with the bat, especially in Test cricket. With the emergence of Yashasvi Jaiswal, who delivered consistent performances, there were a lot of questions about the place of Gill, even in the ODIs. 
Several fans and experts also have backed Yashasvi Jaiswal to open the innings for India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 along with Rohit Sharma. However, amid all this Shubman Gill is making sure that he gives his best to train for the tournament. 
With England ODIs and ICC Champions Trophy 2025 around the corner, Shubman Gill was seen batting in the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium. He was seen batting with the white-ball ahead of the tournament and the video can be seen at the end of the article. 
Shubman Gill looked in golden touch with the bat as he played a pull towards the four before blocking the balls. The batter would be eager to make a strong comeback and reply to all the criticism in style with his performances in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 
Shubman Gill recently played the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 for Punjab. The batter was the lone warrior for his team as he hit a magnificent century and returned to form after having a poor outing in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, where he played just three games. 
Shubman Gill would want to carry on his form and help a team win. He has been one of the best batters for India in ODIs. He also has been named as the vice-captain of the team for the tournament and with added responsibility under his belt, a lot will be reliant on him.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/watch-dewald-brevis-turns-into-superman-as-he-takes-a-stunner-in-sa20-2025-/#google_vignette">Watch: Dewald Brevis turns into ‘SUPERMAN’ as he takes a stunner in SA20 2025</a> 
<h2>Watch: Shubman Gill begins preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025:</h2>

Shubman Gill gets ready for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 {PC:X}

India batter Shubman Gill has started his preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Shubman Gill has been under a lot of pressure for his poor outings with the bat, especially in Test cricket.

Watch: 'Under pressure' Shubman Gill looks solid in nets ahead of ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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Pakistan batter Babar Azam has been in the news for the last few days, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 around the corner. The batter's name has been discussed a lot related to making him open, especially with no clarity over Saim Ayub. 
Pakistan is the only team that has yet to announce the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Since the last few days, he has been in the news as there have been a lot of reports that have suggested that there are chances that he might open the innings for the team. 
However, the fresh reports in Cricket Pakistan have revealed that there are no plans to make Babar Azam open the innings. The reports added that the selection committee has not given the green signal to the development as they feel that batter will be best suited in the middle order. 
<h2>Selectors want a proper opener in the role; Babar Azam to at in middle-order</h2>
The reports claimed that selectors want a proper opener in the role. One of the openers that has been finalized by the management is Fakhar Zaman. However, with Saim Ayub likely to miss out, it is learned that Imam-ul-Haq is also in contention to take the role. 
Babar Azam has been the best batter for Pakistan in ODIs. The batter has mustered truckloads of runs for the team in the format while batting at No.3 and he will be extremely crucial for his team in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be played in Pakistan with India games to be played in India. 
Babar Azam also has been a decent opener as well. He has been opening for the team in T20Is and has achieved massive success as well. He also opened in Test cricket during the recent South Africa series and aced that challenge as well, slamming two half-centuries in two innings. 
But, in white-ball cricket, Babar Azam has been criticised a lot for opening in T20Is. This is because he has failed to maximise the powerplay and has been batting with a low strike rate. It remains to be seen where he will be batting for the team in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/watch-dewald-brevis-turns-into-superman-as-he-takes-a-stunner-in-sa20-2025-/#google_vignette">Watch: Dewald Brevis turns into ‘SUPERMAN’ as he takes a stunner in SA20 2025</a>

Babar Azam has been the best batter for Pakistan in ODIs.

Pakistan batter Babar Azam has been in the news for the last few days, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 around the corner.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam's batting position decided; selectors not in favour of giving him this role

icc-champions-trophy-2025-babar-azam-s-batting-position-decided-selectors-not-in-favour-of-giving-him-this-role-

India assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate has provided a massive fitness update about batter Rinku Singh ahead of the fourth IND vs ENG T20I. He mentioned that the left-hander has gained full fitness and will be playing the next match of the five-match T20I series. 
India and England are all set to lock horns with each other in the fourth match of the T20I series. The game is all set to be played at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on Thursday (30th January). The series is currently at 2-1, with hosts in the lead. 
India has been without the services of Rinku Singh for the last two games of the IND vs ENG series. The left-hander sustained a low back spasm while fielding in the first game and was then ruled out of the next two games of the series as he was under the observation of the BCCI medical team. 
In his place, the India team added Dhruv Jurel to the XI, and the move didn't pay off. The keeper-batter batted lower down the order and struggled to get going in both games, and it potentially cost them the last match of the series. 
<h2>Rinku Singh is fit and ready to play tomorrow - Ryan Ten Doeschate</h2>
However, in what will be a massive boost, Rinku Singh has been declared fit for the next two games. The development was confirmed by assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate, who said that the batter hit nets and will be playing. He told reporters. 
"Rinku Singh is fit and ready to play tomorrow. He batted yesterday night" 
Rinku Singh has been India's one of the best batters in the T20Is. His absence was felt in the last two games as well, but now, with him being fit, it is expected that he would walk straight into the XI and is likely to add Dhruv Jurel to the team. 
The fourth IND vs ENG T20I will be a great opportunity for India to to seal the series, but they need to make some corrections before heading into the next IND vs ENG match. 
India faced a disappointing 26-run loss in the last match at Rajkot. Their batting was one of the main reasons behind the loss and they would be hoping to make a strong comeback.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/watch-dewald-brevis-turns-into-superman-as-he-takes-a-stunner-in-sa20-2025-/#google_vignette">Watch: Dewald Brevis turns into ‘SUPERMAN’ as he takes a stunner in SA20 2025</a>

India assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate has provided a massive fitness update about batter Rinku Singh ahead of the fourth IND vs ENG T20I

India has been without the services of Rinku Singh for the last two games of the IND vs ENG series.

Rinku Singh to play fourth IND vs ENG T20I? India's assistant coach makes a massive statement

rinku-singh-to-play-fourth-ind-vs-eng-t20i-india-s-assistant-coach-makes-a-massive-statement-

On Thursday morning, the scene outside New Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium was nothing short of extraordinary. A massive crowd had gathered well before the match, eager to witness Kohli in action. Long queues stretched for nearly 2 km, with fans patiently waiting for entry. Given his status as Indian cricket biggest crowd-puller the frenzy was hardly surprising. A huge crowd is gathered to see king kohli in  Arun Jaitley Stadium to watch kohli. Reports says that 2KM long queue was showing outside the Arun Jaitley Stadium for virat kohli.
Ranji Trophy action was peaked on January 30 when Virat Kohli, top  star of Indian crickete team, show in his first Ranji Trophy match after a 12-year. Crowd that was shown 2KM away from Arun Jaitley Stadium to see live playing virat kohli. That shows the fan base that kohli and love for indians.
Virat Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy after more than a decade has ignited immense excitement among cricket fans, drawing fresh attention to India’s premier domestic tournament. Virat Kohli’s played his last match  in 2012, that was named in Delhi’s starting XI for their clash against Railways.
According to ANI sports  reports Vipul Kashyap, more than 15,000 fans showed up to see Kohli playing in a Ranji Trophy match after 12 year . That  momentous was return after 12 years for cricket fans. The crowd erupted in excitement the moment Kohli stepped onto the field with his teammates. The roar of the fans was deafening, a testament to their admiration for the former India captain. Kohli acknowledged their love, expressing his gratitude with a warm gesture to there fans.
Virat Kohli last played in the Ranji Trophy when Delhi still had former players like Gautam Gambhir and Virender Sehwag. In that match against Uttar Pradesh, he scored 57 runs across two innings, falling to Bhuvneshwar Kumar both times.
Kohli has featured in 23 Ranji matches between 2006  to 2012 debut against Tamil Nadu, scoring 1,574 runs at an impressive average of 50.77, including five centuries. His highest score—173—came against Bengal. A stellar 2009-10 season earned him a Test call-up, and in 2011, he made his debut in whites against the West Indies. 
Reports says that Virat Kohli’s plays more domestic tournament matches to do practice for future matchs and inspire young generation as well. In future we see more such matchs and India top player's to plays such a match in domestic ground.

Huge Crowd Coming To See Virat Kohli In Ranji Trophy

Ranji Trophy action peaked on January 30 when Virat Kohli, the star Indian cricketer, featured in his first Ranji Trophy game after a 12-year gap.

Virat Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy after more than a decade