21-year-old Saiteja Mukkamalla grabbed headlines with a fearless knock against West Indies legend Andre Russell in the 2025 Major League Cricket (MLC) match between Texas Super Kings (TSK) and Los Angeles Knight Riders (LAKR) on June 15. Though part of TSK since the inaugural season in 2023, he finally made his presence felt in stunning fashion this year.
From sitting on the bench for two seasons to smashing world-class bowlers, Saiteja’s journey has sparked interest worldwide. Here are five key facts you need to know about the rising American star.
1. Youngest USA Batter to Score an ODI Century
Not many teenagers score centuries in international cricket, but Saiteja achieved this rare feat in March 2023. At just 18 years and 355 days old, he smashed 120 not out from 114 balls against the UAE. His knock helped the USA chase down 280 runs, securing a five-wicket win.
This made him the fifth youngest player in ODI history to score a century, behind names like Shahid Afridi and Imran Nazir. It was also a big moment for USA cricket, proving that their young talent can thrive under pressure.
2. Fastest T20I Century by a USA Player
Earlier in 2025, Saiteja once again made history, this time in T20 internationals. In just his 10th T20I, he blasted a 100 off 48 balls* against Oman, becoming the fastest American to reach a T20I hundred.
The right-handed batter struck 7 fours and 7 sixes, helping the USA chase down 191 runs in 19 overs. His T20I stats so far are remarkable average of 42.60 and strike rate of 152.87 in 18 matches.
3. Explosive Start to T20I Career
Most players take time to adjust to T20 internationals, but Saiteja hit the ground running. On his T20I debut against Canada in late 2024, he smashed 52 off 27 balls, the second-highest score by a USA player on debut.
Just two games later, he struck 85 off 54 balls, showing that his debut performance was no fluke. Within his first three matches, he already had two half-centuries, setting the tone for an exciting career ahead.
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4. Already Among USA Cricket’s Top Run-Scorers
Though he began playing international cricket only in 2022, Saiteja has quickly become one of the USA’s most consistent batters. He already has three international centuries, only one short of the all-time USA record held by Monank Patel (4 centuries in 110 games).
With only 51 matches under his belt, Saiteja also ranks fourth in total international runs for the USA, behind Monank, Aaron Jones, and Steven Taylor.
5. Indian Roots, American Rise
Saiteja was born in New Jersey, but his roots trace back to Hyderabad, India. His full name is Saiteja Reddy Mukkamalla, and his family moved to the USA in the 1990s.
Before making it big, he played for the New Jersey Stallions in Minor League Cricket. While known mainly for his batting, Saiteja also bowls occasional off-spin, adding more depth to his skill set.
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