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Nicholas Pooran Named MI New York Captain Ahead of MLC 2025 Season
Former West Indies Captain Steps into Leadership Role for MI New York
Nicholas Pooran, one of the most explosive batters in world T20 cricket, has been appointed the new captain of MI New York for the upcoming Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 season. The 29-year-old wicketkeeper-batter takes over the reins from Kieron Pollard, as MI New York looks to defend its title in the second edition of the fast-growing American franchise league.
Pooran’s elevation to the leadership role follows his retirement from international cricket, marking a new chapter in his T20 career focused on franchise leagues worldwide.
MLC 2023 Champion Returns with More Firepower
Pooran’s Historic Knock in 2023 MLC Final
Nicholas Pooran played a defining role in MI New York’s title win during the inaugural MLC 2023, scoring a blistering 137 not out in the final. It was a record-setting performance and helped MI clinch a convincing win, stamping their authority on the new league.
Pooran ended MLC 2023 as the top run-scorer, amassing 388 runs at a strike rate of 167, showcasing his ability to dominate bowling attacks in crunch moments. This performance solidified his reputation as a T20 powerhouse and justified his promotion to captaincy in 2025.
A Dominant 2024 and IPL 2025 Season
Pooran’s MLC appointment follows his stellar T20 performances in 2024 and IPL 2025. He smashed a record 170 sixes across all T20 competitions in 2024, more than any other batter globally.
In the IPL 2025, representing Lucknow Super Giants, Pooran had his best-ever IPL season. He breached the 500-run mark in a single edition for the first time and sent the ball over the ropes 40 times, breaking the record for the most sixes in a single IPL season.
Such aggressive consistency with the bat, paired with maturity and leadership experience, makes Pooran an ideal candidate to lead MI New York as they aim to defend their MLC title.
For a detailed breakdown of IPL 2025 batting records, check out our IPL 2025 Most Sixes by Players article.
Leadership Experience and Learning from the Past
Pooran’s Captaincy Journey with West Indies
Pooran isn’t new to the captain’s role. He led the West Indies white-ball teams in 2022, although his tenure saw limited success—just 8 wins in 30 matches. Following the team’s early exit from the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia, he stepped down from international captaincy.
However, Pooran has since grown as a player and leader. The experience, despite the setbacks, has shaped him into a more tactical and composed figure—ready for another shot at leadership with a franchise that has trusted his potential.
MI New York Set for Title Defense in MLC 2025
The MLC 2025 season kicks off on June 12, with the San Francisco Unicorns facing Washington Freedom. MI New York begin their title defense against Texas Super Kings on June 13, a match that promises fireworks.
With Pooran at the helm, MI New York fans will be eager to witness another explosive tournament. His leadership, combined with his destructive batting form, could make MI New York favorites once again.
For the official MLC schedule and updates, visit MLC’s official website 🡥.
Final Thoughts
Pooran’s story is one of talent, resilience, and resurgence. His transformation from a struggling international captain to a top-tier T20 match-winner and now franchise leader is remarkable. With the MLC gaining global traction, Pooran’s captaincy could prove pivotal for both MI New York and the tournament’s success.
Expect plenty of fireworks this season—both with the bat and in leadership!
