The state of Alabama recently made a significant mark in the world of international cricket with the outstanding performance of Nosthush Kenjige. The U.S. National Team, competing in its inaugural ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, achieved a historic victory by defeating powerhouse Pakistan in a thrilling super over at Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas. Kenjige, a native of Auburn, played a pivotal role in this triumph.
As one of the few U.S.-born players in the team, Kenjige showcased remarkable skills by taking three wickets and conceding 30 runs during his four-over spell, a performance that will be remembered in cricket history.
The U.S. National Team is set to face another strong opponent, India, in their upcoming match at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in East Meadow, New York. With both teams holding a 2-0 record, the match presents an opportunity for the U.S. to lead Group A in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup standings. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Eight stage, and the U.S. only needs one more win from their remaining two matches against India and Ireland to progress.
Background of Nosthush Kenjige
Nosthush Kenjige, a prominent figure in the Team USA roster, has a unique background. Born on March 2, 1991, in Auburn, Kenjige’s father worked as an agricultural researcher at Tuskegee University. The family later relocated to India when Kenjige was less than a year old. After obtaining a degree in biotechnology from Dayanand Sagar College of Engineering, Kenjige returned to the United States in 2015. Initially residing in Virginia, he later moved to New York where he pursued a career as a biological technician.
Journey to the USA National Cricket Team
Despite his professional commitments, Kenjige’s passion for cricket never waned. Engaging in amateur cricket reignited his love for the sport. After playing squash upon his return to the U.S., Kenjige transitioned to participating in local New York cricket leagues, as mentioned in his U.S. team roster bio.
Reflecting on his journey, Kenjige shared, “It was a phase I was merely floating around without much aim. But a year later, I joined Columbia Cricket Club in New York, and that sort of reignited my desire to pursue cricket.”
In 2016, Kenjige applied for and secured a spot in the USA Combine held at Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx. While initially making the 30-man roster, he narrowly missed the final cut in September. However, his impressive performance at a camp in Houston later that year earned him a spot in the final 14-man roster to travel to Uganda. Kenjige’s dedication to cricket even led to him being let go from a full-time job as he pursued his passion for the sport.
