MLC 2026: Masters of the great escape, MINY eye third title

MI New York have emerged as a beacon of hope in the wider MI ecosystem, building a reputation as the comeback kings of Major League Cricket.

Few franchises embody the famed "never-say-die" DNA better than MINY, who have made a habit of stumbling through league stages before becoming unstoppable when it matters most.

Last season was the ultimate example. Written off after losing six of their first seven matches, MINY clawed into the playoffs before steamrolling the competition to their second title in three seasons.

USA captain Monank Patel shone brightest, piling on 478 runs in 13 matches to finish as the tournament's leading run-scorer. Nicholas Pooran and Quinton de Kock both crossed the 350-run mark. Kieron Pollard rolled back the years, none more importantly than his blistering 22-ball 47 against Texas Super Kings that powered MINY into the final.

International Contingent:

• AM Ghazanfar, who played 11 times for MI in the recent IPL, fills the spin void.
• Romario Shepherd arrives fresh off a title-winning campaign with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
• Corbin Bosch continues his rapid ascent within the MI ecosystem.
• Ryan Rickelton joins after an IPL stint with Mumbai Indians.
• Trent Boult, Nicholas Pooran, Quinton de Kock and Kieron Pollard all return. For Pollard, now 39, this could be a final hurrah.

Domestic Draft:

MINY retained promising youngsters Agni Chopra and Kunwarjit Singh, and brought Corey Anderson back into the MI fold. The 35-year-old all-rounder returns to the franchise where he first became a household name.

Left-arm quick Faisal Khan Ahmadzai, who moved to the US after Afghanistan's domestic first-class circuit, is regarded as an exciting fast-bowling prospect.

MINY will also hope for another strong campaign from Rushil Ugarkar, who defended 12 runs in the final over of last year's championship decider.

Tajinder Singh Dhillon, who lit up the tournament with a breathtaking 95 off 35 deliveries against Seattle Orcas, remains one of the most destructive middle-order hitters in the country.

MINY's faith in domestic talent is exemplified by their continued backing of left-arm spinner Nosthush Kenjige, who has earned opportunities with MI Emirates through the global MI network.