The Seattle Thunderbolts announced the appointment of former Indian cricketer Ian Dev Chauhan as the team captain for the 2024 Minor League Cricket (MiLC) season, the American T20 cricket developmental league for Major League Cricket.
The team announced earlier this week that Chauhan, prominent wicketkeeper-batsman known for his leadership and tactical acumen, steps into the role as the Thunderbolts aim to recapture the title they last won in 2022.
Chauhan brings extensive experience from his time in Indian domestic cricket, where he has served as the captain of the Jammu Kashmir team in the Ranji Trophy tournament. He excelled both behind the stumps and with the bat and was highly regarded for his sharp reflexes and ability to read the game.
The Seattle Thunderbolts expressed confidence in Chauhan’s ability to lead the team to success, stating in a social media post, “His dynamic playing style and strategic mindset make him a natural fit for the captaincy.”
In addition to Chauhan's appointment, the Thunderbolts also announced the hiring of former Mumbai all-rounder Paul Valthaty as head coach. “With 3 half-centuries and a century in his kit bag, Valthaty knows how to turn singles into boundaries and sixes. Get ready for a power-packed season as we aim to knock it out of the park with Paul at the helm,” the team announced on Instagram.
Valthaty, remembered for his explosive 120 not out for Punjab Kings against Chennai Super Kings in the 2011 IPL, retired from first-class cricket last year. He will also head the Thunderbolts cricket academy in Seattle.
Valthaty’s appointment comes with high expectations, particularly in nurturing the next generation of talent. The academy has previously hosted cricket legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul as a visiting coach, further emphasizing the Thunderbolts’ commitment to excellence.
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