Nicholas Pooran Appointed as MI New York Captain Explosive West Indies batter Nicholas Pooran has been handed a significant new responsibility shortly after announcing his retirement from international cricket. Pooran has been appointed captain of MI New York for the upcoming Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 season.
Pooran’s New Role Post-Retirement
After officially retiring from international cricket just a few days ago, Pooran has taken on a key leadership role in the franchise-based MLC tournament. MI New York, owned by the IPL’s Mumbai Indians franchise, announced the appointment on social media, introducing Pooran as their new captain with the caption:
“There’s a new commander in town. Captain Nicholas Pooran.”
Pooran will replace fellow West Indian and former MI New York captain Kieron Pollard, who led the side for the first two MLC seasons.
Pooran’s MLC Journey So Far
Pooran made a remarkable impact during the inaugural MLC season in 2023, smashing an unbeaten 137 in the final and guiding MI New York to their maiden title. He finished that season as the tournament’s leading run-scorer with 388 runs in eight matches, cementing his reputation as one of the world’s most feared T20 batters.
Although his performance dipped slightly in the second season—scoring 180 runs in seven matches—Pooran’s overall record in MLC remains impressive: over 500 runs in just 15 matches. His aggressive left-handed batting style has made him a fan favorite, known for taking on bowlers from the very first ball.
MI New York’s Star-Studded Squad
Pooran will lead a squad filled with international cricket stars, including:
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Quinton de Kock
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Kieron Pollard
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Rashid Khan
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Trent Boult
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Steven Smith
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Glenn Maxwell
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Cameron Green
The team is expected to be competitive again this season, despite some players potentially missing early matches due to international commitments like the World Test Championship final.
MI New York’s Vision for 2025
The franchise praised Pooran’s leadership and batting prowess in their announcement:
“This left-handed wicketkeeper-batter is one of the world’s most feared batters, currently at the peak of his powers. We are excited to see him lead MI New York to greater glory under his leadership.”
They also highlighted his memorable 137* in the inaugural season final, expressing hope he can replicate that magic to secure another title for MI New York.
Rishabh Pant’s Heartfelt Message
Pooran’s IPL teammate, Rishabh Pant—captain of the Lucknow Super Giants—posted a touching Instagram story to congratulate Pooran on his new chapter. Pant wrote:
“You have made your mark, bro. A true teammate, friend, and absolute powerhouse. Proud to have shared the field with you. Congrats on everything you’ve done for West Indies cricket. Wishing you nothing but success for the road ahead. Respect always, Nicholas Pooran.”
Pant’s message highlights the camaraderie and mutual respect shared by the players, both on and off the field.
Conclusion
Nicholas Pooran’s appointment as MI New York captain marks a new chapter in his career, as he looks to guide the team to a second MLC title. With his explosive batting, leadership qualities, and the backing of an experienced franchise, Pooran is poised to make a significant impact in MLC 2025.
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