Tajinder Dhillon: Unshackled at MI New York

Tajinder Dhillon: Unshackled at MI New York

Just ahead of the MLC domestic draft earlier this year, Tajinder Singh Dhillon, 33, had a choice:

• Remain with the San Francisco Unicorns for a third consecutive season, facing limited opportunities.
• Risk it all for a chance to showcase his talent with a new team.

Dhillon chose the latter. He wasn't content with being an afterthought. Having risen late through the ranks in India's domestic system, he wasn't about to trade ambition for comfort.

MI New York management, familiar with Dhillon's potential from his previous stint with their parent franchise, Mumbai Indians, wasted no time bringing him back.

Promoted to number 4 for the first time in his MLC career against the Orcas, Dhillon seized the opportunity. He started cautiously, then unleashed a brutal innings of 95 off 35 deliveries, hammering 6 sixes in a span of 7 deliveries.

His strike rate of 271 eclipsed even Nicholas Pooran's majestic hundred (180 strike rate) in their 158-run partnership.

Dhillon's ability to clear the ropes off the back foot against spin bowling is a rare talent. He showcased this against Raza, taking him for three sixes in three balls.

Dhillon's story is one of perseverance and delayed recognition. He went from an invisible character to a shining star, vindicating his decision to take a chance on himself.