Monank Patel: A Journey from Anand to America’s Cricket team Captain
Monank Patel’s journey in sports is remarkable. His journey from gully cricket to captain of the United States cricket team is one of incredible determination and dedication.
Born on May 1, 1993, in Anand, Gujarat, India, Monank Patel captains the American cricket team. He’s a right-handed top-order batsman and wicket-keeper of Indian origin, playing for the United States since 2018. His father, Dilipbhai Patel, was also a wicketkeeper-batter.
Early Career
Starting cricket at 11 in Anand city, he honed his skills playing with friends in gully matches. Mastering both left and right-hand batting, he represented Gujarat from under-15 to under-19 levels.
He cherished his seven-year journey playing for different state teams and proudly representing Gujarat state team.
Monank moved to New Jersey after receiving a green card in 2010 and immigrated to the USA permanently in 2016.
Journey to United States Cricket team Captain
Upon arriving in the United States, Monank Patel’s cricket journey took a momentous turn, propelling him towards leadership. His rise began when he joined the national team, standing out as a top performer.
- Joined the USA cricket team in August 2018 for ICC World Twenty20 Americas Qualifier.
- Emerged as the highest run-scorer in the tournament with 208 runs in six matches.
- Represented the USA in the 2018–19 Regional Super50 competition in the West Indies.
- Made List A debut on October 6, 2018 and scored the first century by an American batsman.
- Debuted in T20Is against UAE on March 15, 2019.
- Earned an ODI debut in April 2019, securing a century against PNG.
- Signed a 12-month contract with USA Cricket in July 2019.
- Top-scored for the USA in the 2019–20 Regional Super50 competition.
- Participated in the Minor League Cricket competition in June 2021.
- Achieved his first ODI century in the 2021 Oman Tri-Nation Series.
- Captained the American team in the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Americas Qualifier.
- Currently serves as the captain of the USA national cricket team.
- Contributed to MI New York’s victory in the 2023 Major League Cricket (MLC) season.
If you want to know more about Monank Patel, you can read this lovely article: Monank Patel: A Cricket Odyssey from Anand to America’s Captain
