Major League Cricket in USA already has an impressive list of top 7 wicket-takers in its short history
As Major League Cricket prepares for its third season – the action starts again in mid-June – it’s time to take a moment to recall some of the standout performances from the tournament’s first two seasons.
It’s true that Major League Cricket is not the pinnacle of the franchise cricket game, but it is nevertheless a league that attracts big-name players and has the capacity to grow the game’s global following.
While power-hitting and huge sixes have often dominated the headlines in T20 cricket, bowlers still remain vital to winning matches – especially those who can deliver under pressure in the powerplay or at the death.
With that in mind, let’s delve into the statistics and see which players have taken the most wickets since the inception of Major League Cricket two seasons ago.
7. Harmeet Singh (Seattle Orcas): 15 wickets from 13 MLC matches
Few players have become as important to the development of cricket in the U.S. as Harmeet Singh. The left-arm spinner has emerged as a dependable force for the Seattle Orcas with both control and subtle variations.
His ability to keep things tight in the middle overs while also picking up timely wickets has made him a crucial cog in the Orcas’ bowling attack. Harmeet’s experience in domestic cricket, both in India and the U.S., has served him well, and he’s one of the local names to keep an eye on in the years ahead.
6. Andrew Tye (Seattle Orcas and Washington Freedom): 16 wickets from 9 MLC matches
Known worldwide for his knuckle balls and death-over expertise, Andrew Tye has lived up to his reputation in Major League Cricket. Splitting time between the Seattle Orcas and Washington Freedom, the Australia quick has shown he still has plenty to offer in franchise T20s.
His knack for deceiving batters with pace off deliveries and bowling with intelligence in high-pressure situations makes his 16 wickets from just 9 matches all the more impressive.
Tye’s performances have provided an excellent example for young American bowlers looking to develop their T20 skills.
5. Marco Jansen (Washington Freedom) – 18 wickets from 14 MLC matches
The tall South Africa left-armer, Marco Jansen, has become a mainstay of the Washington Freedom bowling lineup. With bounce, swing, and top-level pace, Jansen brings the kind of threat few batters enjoy facing — especially in U.S. conditions where seam movement can play a part.
His ability to strike early in the innings and return at the death makes him a valuable asset. Though his average is slightly higher than others in the top seven, Jansen’s versatility and batting abilities ensure he remains a key weapon in the Freedom’s arsenal.
4. Rashid Khan (MI New York) – 18 wickets from 13 MLC matches
There’s hardly a T20 league in the world where Rashid Khan hasn’t made an impact, and MLC is no exception. Representing MI New York, the Afghan leg-spinner has mesmerized batters with his signature googlies and fast-paced variations.
Rashid’s economy rate might not always make headlines, but his ability to break partnerships and disrupt rhythm has been instrumental in MI New York’s success. His 18 wickets in 13 games highlight his consistency, and the crowds in America have embraced one of the modern greats of the format.
3. Cameron Gannon (Seattle Orcas) – 22 wickets from 14 MLC matches
A U.S.-qualified player with experience in Australia’s Big Bash League, Cameron Gannon has taken on the role of senior statesman in the Seattle Orcas pace attack. At 6’6″, Gannon uses his height to generate bounce, and his ability to hit hard lengths and keep things simple has reaped rewards.
With 22 wickets from 14 matches, he’s proven himself as not just a handy bowler in American conditions, but also a key leader among the domestic players in the squad. His performances are a promising sign of MLC’s local talent pool taking shape.
2. Saurabh Netravalkar (Washington Freedom) – 25 wickets from 13 MLC matches
Possibly the most heartwarming success story of MLC so far, Saurabh Netravalkar has gone from former India U19 star to a central figure in the rise of American cricket.
Now a regular in the U.S. national side and a leader for Washington Freedom, the left-arm seamer combines swing, control, and excellent discipline. His stunning average of just 14.44 — across 25 wickets in 13 games — underlines his impact.
Netravalkar may not have the headline-grabbing profile of others on this list, but he has been among the most effective bowlers in the league.
1. Trent Boult (MI New York) – 31 wickets from 15 MLC matches
Trent Boult is arguably the most decorated bowler to have graced MLC so far, and he has absolutely lived up to the hype.
The left-arm New Zealand star is a master of swing, especially in the powerplay, and his early breakthroughs have given MI New York an edge in almost every game he’s played.
His strike rate is outstanding, and he often sets the tone for his side with the new ball. With 31 wickets from just 15 matches, Boult leads the wicket charts – a true reflection of his class and continued excellence in T20 cricket.