Aaron Jones, Chaitanya Bishnoi, Sunny Patel Selected In Major League Cricket 2024 Draft

The Cognizant Major League Cricket (MLC) Domestic Supplementary Draft, held on June 18, has concluded. Team USA's vice-captain Aaron Jones was among three domestic players selected for the upcoming second MLC season, which starts on July 5.

Following significant interest in the T20 World Cup and America's success, three MLC teams—Los Angeles Knight Riders, MI New York, and Seattle Orcas—had roster spots available. This provided an opportunity for undrafted domestic players to secure a place in the upcoming tournament.

The draft order was randomly determined on June 18. Teams were given 48 hours to strategize and finalize internal discussions before the supplementary draft occurred.

Pick #1 – LA Knight Riders – Chaitanya Bishnoi

A top-order batsman and spin bowler, the 29-year-old played for the Chennai Super Kings championship side in 2018 before moving to the United States in early 2023. He was part of the San Francisco Unicorns squad in the 2023 inaugural season of Major League Cricket, featuring in all five matches. He also played a key role for the Dallas Xforia Giants during the 2023 edition of Minor League Cricket.

Pick #2 – Seattle Orcas – Aaron Jones

Jones returns to a familiar dressing room, having played for the Orcas in last year's inaugural Major League Cricket season. The top-order batsman has been instrumental in Team USA's success during the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Jones made headlines throughout Team USA's historic World Cup campaign and was part of the USA's significant victory over Pakistan in Texas. Orcas fans will be hoping for similar performances throughout MLC.

Pick #3 – MI New York – Sunny Patel

A right-handed middle-order batsman and leg-spin bowler, Sunny Patel made a notable impact during the 2023 Minor League Cricket season. His contributions with both bat and ball were crucial in advancing the New Jersey Somerset Cavaliers to the Championship match, where they lost to the Dallas Mustangs. Patel adds variety to MI New York's domestic player brigade as the only domestic leg-spinner on their roster heading into the 2024 season.

The draft has set the stage for an engaging second season of Major League Cricket, with new talents ready to showcase their skills on a larger platform.