The landscape of world cricket is shifting, and the United States has become the new land of opportunity for many talented players. Specifically, several Pakistani cricketers have made the bold decision to leave their home country and settle in the USA to pursue stable careers and play in the burgeoning Major League Cricket (MLC).
In this article, we look at the top Pakistani stars who have traded the Green Jersey for a future in American cricket and how they are performing in 2026. Apart from this, if you want to watch cricket updates and live cricket in America, then click on this link.👇
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Why are Pakistani Cricketers Moving to the USA?
The rise of Major League Cricket (MLC) and the Minor League Cricket (MiLC) system has provided a professional structure and financial security that was previously missing in the US. Many players, feeling overlooked by the national selectors or seeking a better lifestyle, have moved to cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Francisco to restart their careers as "local" players.
1. Sami Aslam (The Trailblazer)
Sami Aslam was one of the first high-profile names to move to the USA in 2020 after feeling frustrated with the Pakistan cricket system.
- Background: A prolific left-handed opener who played 13 Tests for Pakistan.
- USA Status: He officially became eligible to represent the USA in late 2023.
- Current Team: A key part of the Texas Super Kings in MLC, Sami has become a mentor for young talent in California.
2. Hammad Azam (The All-Round Powerhouse)
- Background: Played for Pakistan between 2011 and 2015.
- Performance: He was the "Player of the Tournament" in Pakistan’s domestic circuit before moving.
- MLC Career: Hammad has represented MI New York and San Francisco Unicorns, proving to be a vital middle-order finisher.
3. Ehsan Adil (The World Cup Pacer)
- International Return: Exactly 11 years after his last match for Pakistan (2015 World Cup), he represented the USA in the 2026 T20 World Cup as a replacement for Jasdeep Singh.
- Impact: His experience in the PSL and Pakistan's domestic first-class circuit has made him a leader in the USA bowling attack.
4. Hassan Khan (The Spin Prodigy)
- The Switch: Hassan recently clarified that his move to the USA was "abrupt" but a decision he is satisfied with.
- PSL 2026 Status: Interestingly, he returned to play in PSL 2026 for the Hyderabad Kingsmen as an overseas player due to his USA allegiance.
5. Other Notable Names
- Saad Ali: The stylish left-hander who briefly played for Pakistan is now active in the US circuit.
- Mukhtar Ahmed & Saad Adil: Both are consistently performing in the Houston Open and Minor League Cricket.
Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026: The Next Big Stage
Comparison: Pakistani Stars in Domestic & USA Cricket
| Player Name | Role | Pakistan Career Highlights | Current USA Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sami Aslam | Opening Batter | 13 Test Matches, 2,000+ First Class runs | Texas Super Kings |
| Hammad Azam | All-Rounder | 11 International Matches (ODI/T20) | San Francisco Unicorns |
| Ehsan Adil | Fast Bowler | 2015 World Cup Squad Member | USA National Team |
| Hassan Khan | All-Rounder | Pakistan U-19 Captain, Quetta Gladiators | San Francisco Unicorns |
| Saad Ali | Middle Order Batter | 1 Test Match, Prolific Domestic Scorer | Houston Hurricanes |
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