Milind Kumar: From Ranji Trophy Record-Breaker to U.S. Cricket Star — The Inspiring Journey of an Indian Batsman

Overview

Milind Kumar (born 15 February 1991, Delhi) is an Indian-born cricketer who now represents the United States national cricket team. He is a right-handed batsman and occasional right-arm off-break bowler.

Originally prominent in Indian domestic cricket (for teams such as Delhi cricket team, Sikkim cricket team and Tripura cricket team) he transitioned to playing for the U.S., achieving several notable records.

Early life & domestic career

• Born in Delhi on 15 February 1991.
• Made his mark in Indian domestic cricket: After starting with Delhi, he later moved to Sikkim (2018-19) and also played for Tripura.
• In the 2018-19 season of the Ranji Trophy (Plate league), playing for Sikkim, Milind scored 1331 runs including six centuries and four fifties — he broke the record for most runs in a Ranji season for his category.
• Example: He smashed 224 off 215 balls for Sikkim against Nagaland in November 2018.

Transition to USA & International Career

• In recent years, Milind decided to shift his cricketing journey to the United States. He retired from Indian domestic eligibility and joined U.S. leagues.
• He was selected in the U.S. squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (2024) representing the U.S. in global cricket tournaments.
• Highlights: He scored 155 runs* for USA in an ODI against UAE, a feat which made headlines because it was the first time in ODI history an innings ended exactly at 155.

Playing Style & Role

• Primarily a top-order batsman with a strong domestic track record.
• Right-hand batting, right-arm off-break bowling.
• His domestic first-class stats: over 2,988 runs at an average around 46.68 (highest 261) in 46 matches.
• List A stats: approx. 2,705 runs averaging ~45.08.

Key Achievements & Records

• Top run-scorer in the 2018-19 Ranji Trophy season (1331 runs) for Sikkim.
• Became the first batter in ODI history to end an innings on exactly 155, playing for USA vs UAE.
• Played for IPL franchises like Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (although with limited appearances).

Why His Journey Matters

• Milind’s career exemplifies persistence and adaptability: from Indian domestic circuits to representing USA at an international level.
• Shows how cricketers can find new opportunities by shifting geographies and embracing new challenges.
• His record-breaking domestic season and subsequent international performances underscore that talent may require the right platform to shine.

Outlook & What to Watch

• As USA cricket continues to grow, Milind Kumar’s experience (from tough Indian domestic cricket to international associate cricket) positions him as a key figure in the U.S. setup.
• Keep an eye on his batting performances for USA in upcoming ODI/T20 matches — especially his potential to create impact innings.
• Also interesting is his role in mentoring younger U.S. players who may benefit from his domestic Indian experience.

Final Thoughts

Milind Kumar’s story is one of cross-continental cricketing evolution — from Delhi hopes, domestic excellence in the Ranji Trophy, to making his mark in American cricket. His journey offers inspiration: that of staying ready, embracing new paths, and delivering when opportunities come.