1709 Interviews Archives

Sohaib Maqsood on USA Cricket’s Bright Future!

April 30, 2025April 30, 2025
by Team

1709 Interviews

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In this interview, Sohaib Maqsood shares his thoughts on the rapid growth of cricket in the United States. He highlights the passion of the South Asian communities and the increasing opportunities that are shaping the future of the game in America.

With more cricket being played and stronger platforms emerging, Sohaib believes that “a lot of good cricket is coming up in the USA in the future,” and sees a promising rise for the national team as well. 🇺🇸🔥

Sanjay Krishnamurthi’s Journey To USA Cricket!

April 27, 2025April 27, 2025
by Team

1709 Interviews

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Sanjay Krishnamurthi @sanjaykrishnamurthi shares his inspiring journey from India to the USA — a story of unexpected turns, resilience, and finding a home in American cricket.

He came to the U.S. in the middle of 11th grade, initially just to explore the cricket scene through a USA Cricket @usacricket camp. But then COVID-19 hit, travel shut down, and life took a new direction. Three months later, his dad landed a job in the Bay Area, and they stayed — a twist of fate that became a new beginning.

Now a proud representative of USA Cricket, Sanjay reflects on how it all unfolded and how grateful he is for where the journey has brought him. And we’re lucky to have him in the red, white, and blue.

Andries Gous Grateful To USA Cricket & MLC!

April 22, 2025April 22, 2025
by Team

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In this emotional and powerful message, USA batter Andries Gous @gousie08 thanks USA Cricket and Major League Cricket (MLC) @mlc for giving players like him the opportunity to shine on the world stage. Gous reflects on how cricket powerhouses like India and South Africa are overflowing with talent — where even top-tier players struggle to break through.

“When you get your chance, you have to take it, because if you don’t, there are five people waiting — and they won’t make mistakes either,” Gous shares. @usacricket

Now with a platform to perform, he proudly adds: “We’re just finally grateful for the opportunity that we finally got to prove ourselves — that we are here, and that we’re good enough to compete.”

This is more than just a career milestone — it’s a moment of validation for every underdog who believed in their potential.

Rushil On MINY Teammate Rashid Khan!

April 16, 2025April 16, 2025
by Team

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Rushil Ugarkar on Rashid Khan: “One of the best I’ve ever played with” 🌟

In this video, Rushil Ugarkar @rushil_ugarkar shares high praise for his MI New York @minycricket teammate, Rashid Khan, calling him “one of the best players I’ve ever played with.” From his unmatched energy on the field to his all-round ability—doing everything except wicketkeeping—Rashid stands out as a true game-changer.

Rushil highlights how Rashid @rashid.khan19 keeps things simple yet effective, always coming in with a clear plan, whether he’s bowling or batting. He’s the kind of player who knows how to get the job done—and his presence lifts the entire team.

Catch this short insight into what makes Rashid Khan such a special cricketer through the eyes of a fellow teammate.

Off The Pitch With Steven Katwaroo!

April 7, 2025April 7, 2025
by Team

1709 Interviews

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When he’s not on the field, Steven Katwaroo @stevenkatwaroo20 is passionately shaping the next generation of cricketers as the Head Coach of Falcons Junior Sport. A true student of the game, Steven finds immense joy and satisfaction in mentoring young talent—watching them grow into disciplined, skilled players through hard work and dedication.

For Steven, coaching is more than a role—it’s a responsibility he takes great pride in. His goal is to contribute meaningfully to the beautiful game of cricket by staying professional, focused, and committed to helping each player reach their full potential. As he says, “It’s a pleasure to be part of this game, and an even greater one to witness the players they’re becoming.”

Gous’s father: “You must leave me”

December 30, 2024January 4, 2025
by Team

1709 Interviews

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Andries Gous @gousie08 credits his father for fostering cricket journey, starting him with lessons at an early age and training young Andries daily for 15 years. Motivated by a desire to give his son a better life, Andries knew that cricket in America was on the rise and saw it as his path to success. 🏏

Andries’s dad’s words really resonated with him: “Either you’ll leave me, or your son will leave you someday,”

Andries was determined to create a future where his family would thrive so he took the leap and made the move to America. 🇺🇲

Sanjay on Coach Shane Watson 🦄

November 12, 2024November 13, 2024
by Team

MLC

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Sanjay Krishnamurthi @sanjaykrishnamurthi shares how the legendary Shane Watson @srwatson33 has made a huge impact on his game.

Shane uses both his technical prowess and his expertise in mental skills to get the best out of his players. 🏏

Sanjay recalls a key net session where he struggled with timing, but a simple tip from Shane—finishing his initial movement slightly earlier—made all the difference. Next thing he knew, he was “whacking the ball” all over! 💥

Beyond technique, Shane’s mentorship instills confidence and brings out the best in his players. His book, opened up the mental side of cricket for Sanjay, helping him grow even more. Grateful for the guidance from one of the best! 🙌

Team success starts from the top 🏏

November 7, 2024November 8, 2024
by Team

1709 Interviews

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The leadership sets the tone and creates the culture of a team. In the case of the 2024 MLC @mlcricketusa champions the Washington Freedom @wshfreedom, that leadership started with Ricky Ponting @rickyponting.

As Andries Gous @gousie08 explains, Ponting took the time to get to know all the players — not just the superstar international players (many of whom he already knew really well), but also the domestic players. That made all the difference and the Freedom not only ended up at the top of the table after the first round, but won the tournament overall.

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