Monank Patel bats for greater domestic representation in MLC playing XIs

Monank Patel bats for greater domestic representation in MLC playing XIs

USA captain Monank Patel, currently leading the run charts with two league games to go, has lauded the performances of domestic players in this year's MLC. He contends that the consistent impact made by domestic talent this season has not only exceeded expectations but also strengthened the case for a potential reduction in the foreign player quota.

If the league is indeed considering realigning the current six-foreigner rule to five or fewer next season, the MI New York opener feels the domestic players' performances this year should serve as a strong endorsement in support of that shift.

"As you see, the 40-odd games we played this season, every domestic player from different teams has been performing when you talk about bowling, fielding or batting. There are a few players who've been consistent. Also the two seasons which we played has helped us to gain the experience and we know how to perform.

"And you know those small mistakes which we used to do before, we're not repeating. And there are a lot of match-winning innings and bowling spells from a lot of players. So I feel like I'm no one to decide, but everyone can see it, and if there's a decision to be made they'll be more confident to make that decision," said Monank.

Monank catapulted himself to the top of the run charts this season with his fourth half-century, helping MI New York stay alive in the race for the fourth playoff spot which has intensified after Seattle Orcas' late resurgence. He has now amassed 359 runs in 8 innings at a blistering strike rate of 154.

On a slightly dodgy wicket under overcast skies, Monank produced a masterful knock of 56 off 44 deliveries in a tricky chase of 155. In a 112-run second-wicket stand with captain Nicholas Pooran, it was Monank, the domestic player who looked the more reassuring presence at the crease and more in control of the chase than his senior partner.