Back in 2012, Unmukt Chand became a household name in India as his name was on every cricket fan’s lips when he led India to victory in the U-19 World Cup final with a match-winning century against Australia.
Unmukt Chand’s Journey: From India’s U19 Hero to USA Cricket Hopeful
Many people felt that the young star would go on to become one of the biggest superstars of the senior Indian cricket team. But things didn’t go as planned. Struggling to cement a spot in India’s packed batting line-up, Unmukt Chand made a bold decision in 2021 when he moved to the United States in search of new opportunities and a fresh start.
Ever since he moved to the US, he has been working hard to make a spot for himself in the American cricket team. Despite his consistent efforts, Unmukt Chand continues to be overlooked by the USA selectors. He wasn’t picked for the recent five-match T20I series against Canada, the T20 World Cup squad, or even the upcoming Netherlands series. For a player who has sacrificed a lot to restart his career in the USA, this snub feels tough to swallow.
Consistent Performances in Major League Cricket (MLC)
Unmukt Chand’s numbers speak for themselves. He has played 13 matches so far, scoring 301 runs at an average of 23.15 and a strike rate of 114.01. He has hit three half-centuries, showing that he can play important knocks when needed. His form in MLC 2025 has been impressive, and he remains a key opener for the Los Angeles Knight Riders.
Unmukt Chand has played 13 matches so far, scoring 301 runs at an average of 23.15 and a strike rate of 114.01. He has hit three half-centuries, showing that he can play important knocks when needed. His form in MLC 2025 has been impressive, and he remains a key opener for the Los Angeles Knight Riders.
Chand’s Standout Season with the Los Angeles Knight Riders
Unmukt Chand is having a great season in Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 as an important player for the Los Angeles Knight Riders. So far, he has played 4 matches and scored 161 runs at an impressive average of 53.67. His best performance came against the Seattle Orcas, where he smashed an unbeaten 86 runs off 58 balls, hitting 10 fours and 4 sixes.
Thanks to this knock, he won the Player of the Match award and helped his team get their first win of the season while chasing 178 runs. Earlier in the tournament, he also scored a quick 53 off 32 balls in another match.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles Knight Riders (LAKR) head coach and cricket star DJ Bravo has praised Unmukt Chand and said he should be picked for the USA Men’s national cricket team after his excellent performance with the bat.
Support from DJ Bravo: A Voice That Matters
After watching Chand’s outstanding performance with the bat, Bravo praised him and said that a player like Chand deserves a place in the national side. According to Bravo, Chand has the skills, experience, and form to make a big difference for the USA team. Bravo took to his social media and penned a note stressing that Cricket is bigger than politics. He wrote:
“This guy (Unmukt Chand) deserves to be involved in USA Cricket team. Cricket is bigger than politics. Let’s do right for these players. Well Done!”
Check out his post:
ALSO READ: From Bradman To Stokes: The Top 5 Run Chases On English Grounds