Unmukt Chand Stands Out as the Sole Player for Los Angeles Knight Riders in MLC 2025

Unmukt Chand, the former captain of India’s Under-19 World Cup-winning team, has embarked on a challenging journey since his retirement from Indian cricket in 2021. Now based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Chand has set his sights on representing the United States national cricket team. Although he has yet to receive the coveted call-up, his performances in the 2025 Major League Cricket have shown promise, as he currently ranks among the top run-scorers in the league. With the Los Angeles Knight Riders struggling at the bottom of the table, Chand’s efforts may be crucial in his quest for redemption.

## Unmukt’s Transition to American Cricket

In 2021, Unmukt Chand made the life-altering decision to move to the United States, believing it would provide him with a second chance in his cricket career. After achieving success as a youth player, including captaining India to victory in the Under-19 World Cup in 2012, Chand faced numerous setbacks that led to his retirement from Indian cricket at just 28. His primary objective upon relocating was to earn a spot on the US national team, but he has yet to make that dream a reality. Four years into his American journey, he remains hopeful, emphasizing that playing for the national team is his ultimate goal.

Chand’s initial attempts in Minor League Cricket did not yield the results he had hoped for. He expressed disappointment at not being selected for the 2024 T20 World Cup, a tournament that holds significant importance for him. His performances in the first two seasons of Major League Cricket were underwhelming, with scores of only 68 runs in his debut season and 158 runs in the subsequent one. However, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to improve and showcase his skills.

## A Resurgent Performance in MLC 2025

This season, Unmukt Chand has rediscovered his form, emerging as a standout player for the Los Angeles Knight Riders. With 243 runs in seven matches, he currently ranks sixth among the league’s top run-scorers. Despite the team’s struggles at the bottom of the points table, his individual performance has been a silver lining. Unmukt’s resurgence comes at a critical time, as he aims to attract the attention of selectors for the US national team.

Chand acknowledges that his path back to national selection hinges on consistent performances. He stated, “Whenever I have not got selected, performance was the only way you come back in.” This pragmatic approach reflects his understanding of the competitive nature of cricket and the necessity of delivering results to earn recognition. As he gears up for the remaining matches of the season, he remains focused on improving his game and seizing every opportunity to showcase his talent.

## The Road Ahead for Unmukt Chand

With three games left in the 2025 Major League Cricket season, Unmukt Chand finds himself in a position to end the season on a high note. While the Los Angeles Knight Riders are mathematically out of the playoff race, these matches represent an opportunity for Chand to solidify his standing as a key player. He views each game as a chance to demonstrate his growth and determination in pursuit of his cricketing dreams.

Reflecting on his journey, Chand emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement. “I want to be a better version of myself,” he remarked. This mindset has been a driving force throughout his career, pushing him to strive for excellence. Unmukt remains optimistic about the future, believing that his journey in cricket is far from over. He is committed to working hard, honing his skills, and maintaining his focus on achieving his ultimate goal of representing the US national team.


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