Which 2 international batters have already scored 500+ runs each in Major League Cricket, USA?
It is still a little way off, but the start of the third season of America’s Major League Cricket is on the horizon. Teams are confirming their rosters and the schedule, which opens with a game between the San Francisco Unicorns and Washington Freedom has been confirmed.
Although Major League Cricket is still in its infancy, it has already drawn some of the biggest names in world cricket. With international stars mixing with homegrown talent and American-born hopefuls.
The first two seasons have offered fans high-quality T20 action in an emerging cricket market. One thing that’s stood out is the calibre of batting, with some of the world’s most explosive players lighting up stadiums in Texas and North Carolina.
As we move towards the start of a franchise league that has huge scope for creating growth in the American game, let’s take a look to see who the highest run scorers in the opening two seasons of Major League Cricket have been.
7. Travis Head – 336 runs from 9 MLC matches
Travis Head’s T20 pedigree has grown immensely in recent years, and his impact in MLC was immediate. Representing the Washington Freedom, the dynamic Australia left-hander brought his signature aggression and clean ball striking to American shores.
What made his contributions stand out was the consistency – Head passed 30 in six of his nine innings, setting strong platforms at the top of the order. His average of 48.00 speaks volumes about his reliability, and with the World Cup-winning form he’s shown of late, expect even bigger fireworks in season three.
6. Steven Smith – 336 runs from 9 MLC matches
Known more for his Test and ODI exploits, Steve Smith has reminded the cricketing world that he’s no mug in the shortest format either. In MLC, Smith found a groove as an anchor who could accelerate when needed.
His strike rotation, smart placement, and occasional boundaries made him an ideal foil for more aggressive partners. An average of 56.00 is exceptional in any format, but in T20 cricket it speaks to a player who values his wicket and knows how to build an innings – a rare commodity in today’s game.
5. Finn Allen – 381 runs from 14 MLC matches
New Zealand’s Finn Allen is all about intent. A power-packed opener with a tendency to go big or go home, Allen thrilled fans with some rapid-fire starts for the San Francisco Unicorns. Though he didn’t always convert those starts into major scores, his strike rate and fearless approach made him a key entertainer.
With 381 runs from 14 matches, he proved a valuable asset and a tone-setter. If he can add a bit more consistency to his all-out approach, Allen should climb this list quickly in the upcoming seasons.
4. Quinton de Kock – 434 runs from 14 MLC matches
Known worldwide for his effortless stroke play, Quinton de Kock adapted seamlessly to the MLC environment. The South Africa wicketkeeper-batter brought a touch of class to the top order, combining elegant drives with brutal slog sweeps.
Batting for the Seattle Orcas, he was both an aggressor and an accumulator, often holding the innings together. With 434 runs across 14 matches, de Kock was a linchpin in his side’s batting lineup – and showed American fans just how easy the game can look in the hands of a true pro. QdK is set to play for MI New York in 2025.
3. Faf du Plessis – 466 runs from 15 MLC matches
A veteran leader and one of T20 cricket’s most sought-after stars, Faf du Plessis has embraced the MLC project with enthusiasm. Representing the Texas Super Kings, Faf’s experience and power-hitting made him an invaluable presence.
He has played several match-winning innings and was crucial in guiding younger teammates. His 466 runs came at a brisk pace and included a couple of vintage Faf performances—clean six-hitting, clever gaps, and unwavering fitness. His presence in the league has added credibility and class.
2. Devon Conway – 514 runs from 15 MLC matches
Few players in the world game are as adaptable and consistent as Devon Conway. The New Zealand left-hander has become a cornerstone in white-ball cricket due to his solid technique and calm demeanour under pressure.
Playing for the Texas Super Kings alongside du Plessis, Conway regularly provided the glue in the top order. His 514 runs came at an average of 42.83, proving his ability to both anchor an innings and shift gears when needed.
With shot selection that suits both slow and fast decks, Conway is one of MLC’s most reliable batters.
1. Nicholas Pooran – 568 runs from 15 MLC matches
Topping the run charts across the first two seasons is Nicholas Pooran, the West Indian dynamo with wrists like rubber and timing to spare. Known for his six-hitting and fearless finishing, Pooran has been a standout performer for MI New York.
Whether chasing or setting targets, he brings a level of swagger and unpredictability that thrills fans and terrifies bowlers. His 568 runs have come at a superb average of 47.33—and often at a frightening strike rate too.
He’s the perfect blend of entertainer and match-winner, and his form is a huge reason for MI’s early success in the league.
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