Fitcart Sports News Blog.
Authored by S. Kannan (Sports Analyst) and Fitcart Editorial Team Ritu Makhija.
Former India Under-19 World Cup-winning captain Unmukt Chand continues to pursue his dream of representing the United States internationally. Having moved to the USA in 2021, Chand believes his cricketing future lies there and remains determined to earn a place on the USA national team.
Speaking exclusively to Fitcart.com, Chand reflected on his journey, his performances in Major League Cricket (MLC), and his ambitions for the future.
“When I moved out of India in 2021, it was a conscious decision. I know leaving India was a hard choice, but my future as a cricketer is in the USA,” Chand said.
The former India Under-19 skipper was the highest run-scorer for the Los Angeles Knight Riders during the 2025 Major League Cricket (MLC) season, scoring 302 runs at an average of 33.6.
Reflecting on his recent form, Chand admitted that the latest season has been more challenging.
“Last season was really good for me. However, this season, the ride has been bumpy. The tracks I played on were not great this time, but I continue to train and play as often as possible.”
Adjusting to Cricket in the USA
Chand acknowledged that cricket in India offers significantly more opportunities compared to the United States. However, he appreciates the flexibility that comes with being a professional franchise cricketer.
“It’s mostly weekend cricket here, but during the week I focus on batting and improving.”
The 2012 ICC Under-19 World Cup-winning captain added that he is equally happy playing Minor League Cricket in the USA while exploring opportunities in other leagues around the world.
“There is scope for me to play a variety of cricket now, whether in the USA or even in the UAE. In the Gulf, I have played T20 cricket as well as the Abu Dhabi T10 League. This is the advantage of being a professional cricketer who plays on contracts with different teams.”
Dreaming of the USA National Team
Despite enjoying franchise cricket, Chand’s long-term goal remains representing the United States internationally.
“There were administrative issues with USA Cricket. Now that the ICC is handling affairs, everything should be sorted.”
With cricket set to return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028, Chand believes the opportunity makes the coming years even more exciting.
“I have not yet played for the USA, but if I receive a call-up, I will be extremely happy. All I can do is keep working hard and continue playing competitive cricket. Out here, I am playing full-time T20 cricket, so I know I have to keep performing consistently.”
Looking Ahead
Interestingly, Chand currently represents the Los Angeles Knight Riders, creating a fitting connection with the host city of the 2028 Summer Olympics, where cricket will make its Olympic return.
The accomplished batter is also looking forward to visiting India.
“I do keep coming home, and the sheer volume of cricket in India is fantastic for any professional cricketer.”
Unmukt Chand is expected to be in India in August 2026, but his focus remains firmly on achieving his biggest ambition yet—earning a place in the USA national cricket team.
FAQ’s
Will Unmukt Chand play for the USA national cricket team?
Unmukt Chand hopes to represent the USA national cricket team and continues to perform in Major League Cricket while awaiting an international opportunity.
Which team does Unmukt Chand currently represent?
He currently plays for the Los Angeles Knight Riders in Major League Cricket.
When did Unmukt Chand move to the United States?
He relocated to the USA in 2021 to pursue opportunities in American cricket.
Will cricket be included in the 2028 Olympics?
Yes. Cricket will return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028 after more than a century.
What is Major League Cricket?
Major League Cricket (MLC) is the premier professional T20 cricket competition in the United States, featuring international and domestic players.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this article is published solely for sports news, editorial and informational purposes for cricket fans and the wider sporting community. The content is based on interviews and publicly available information believed to be accurate at the time of publication. It is not intended to defame, target, harm, misrepresent or adversely affect any individual, organisation, governing body, franchise or institution. The opinions expressed by interviewees are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Fitcart.com. Fitcart.com Blog is committed to responsible, balanced and factual sports journalism.
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