Recently, co-hosts USA unveiled their squad for the much-anticipated T20 World Cup 2024, marking their debut on the grand stage of T20I cricket. With a roster boasting several international talents, USA Cricket aims to make a mark in the tournament. However, amidst the excitement, notable names who relocated to the USA for cricketing opportunities found themselves overlooked. Here’s a closer look at five such cricketers who missed out on a spot in the USA’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad.
1. Unmukt Chand: Renowned for leading India to victory in the ICC U-19 World Cup in 2012, Unmukt Chand was once hailed as the future of Indian cricket. Despite IPL stints with various franchises, including Delhi Daredevils, Rajasthan Royals, and Mumbai Indians, Chand’s career trajectory took an unexpected turn. Opting for a fresh start in the USA cricketing circuit, Chand showcased his prowess but found himself sidelined for the mega event.
2. Sami Aslam: Former Pakistan opener Sami Aslam embarked on a new journey by moving to the USA in search of better opportunities. Despite his appearances for Texas Super Kings in the Major League Cricket tournament, Aslam’s aspirations of representing USA in the T20 World Cup remained unfulfilled.
3. Shehan Jayasuriya: Having represented Sri Lanka in international cricket, Shehan Jayasuriya transitioned to the USA cricketing scene, earning a stint with Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket. However, despite his credentials, Jayasuriya’s absence from the USA squad raised eyebrows, particularly after allegations of misconduct during trials.
4. Rusty Theron: Once a prominent figure in South African cricket, Rusty Theron’s career took a turn as he migrated to the USA. Despite featuring for Texas Super Kings, Theron’s comeback bid to the international stage fell short as he missed out on selection for the T20 World Cup.
5. Cameron Stevenson: Australian all-rounder Cameron Stevenson, with his experience in domestic cricket and international appearances for USA, seemed a viable candidate for the T20 World Cup squad. However, despite his contributions in ODIs and T20Is, Stevenson’s name was notably absent from the final roster.
As USA Cricket gears up for its T20 World Cup debut, these omissions highlight the challenges faced by overseas players seeking opportunities in the evolving landscape of global cricket.
