Indian cricket isn’t just about sixes and wickets; it’s about the fascinating personalities behind the helmets. Here’s a glimpse into some lesser-known facts about your favorite men in blue:
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The Legends:
- Sachin Tendulkar (The Master Blaster): Sachin, not only a cricketing God, is a trained doctor with a passion for helping underprivileged children. He even received an honorary doctorate for his contributions to sports. Did you know he’s also a champion for animal welfare?
- Sourav Ganguly (Dada): Before leading India to cricketing glory, Sourav Ganguly was a commercial pilot with a pilot’s license! He’s also a talented singer and loves indulging in Bengali music.
The Modern Marvels:
- Virat Kohli (King Kohli): This aggressive batsman isn’t just about intensity. He’s a fitness fanatic and a strict vegan who believes in a healthy lifestyle. But here’s a surprise – Virat secretly enjoys singing and loves unwinding with music.
- Rohit Sharma (Hitman): Rohit, the “Hitman,” might be a six-hitting machine, but he’s also a self-proclaimed foodie! He loves indulging in street food from different parts of India. Interestingly, he holds a degree in commerce and even worked as a marketing manager before cricket took over his life.
- Jasprit Bumrah (Boom Boom Bumrah): This express fast bowler loves a mental challenge. When not terrorizing batsmen, Jasprit can be found solving Rubik’s cubes with impressive speed. He’s also known for his calm and composed demeanor on the field, a stark contrast to his fiery pace.
Beyond the Bat and Ball:
- Ravindra Jadeja (Sir Jadeja): This talented all-rounder harbors a hidden passion for horses. He owns a stud farm and enjoys spending time with these majestic creatures. His unique sword-swing celebration might surprise you, but it’s inspired by a Rajput king, showcasing his love for Indian history.
- Yuvraj Singh (Yuvi): Yuvraj Singh’s determination and fighting spirit are legendary. But did you know this champion batsman is also a talented rapper? He even released his own music album!
- MS Dhoni (Captain Cool): MS Dhoni, the epitome of cool and calm under pressure, has a surprising hidden talent. He’s a natural with drums and enjoys showcasing his drumming skills whenever he gets the chance.
Lucky Charms and Superstitions:
Many players have lucky superstitions they swear by. Virat Kohli wears a black wristband for good luck, while Rohit Sharma always carries a trusted pair of pads, believing they bring him success. Some bowlers, like Zaheer Khan, even have specific routines they follow before bowling their first delivery.
INTERESTING FACTS FOR WOMEN
Indian women’s cricket boasts a powerhouse of talented players, not just on the field but also with fascinating personalities. Here’s a peek into some lesser-known facts about the women who are redefining Indian cricket:
The Stalwarts:
- Mithali Raj (The Rajj): This elegant batter is a true bookworm, devouring books across various genres. Beyond academics, she’s also a trained dancer with a love for classical Indian dance forms, showcasing her grace on and off the field.
- Jhulan Goswami (The Yorker Queen): Jhulan, a name synonymous with swing bowling, is a teacher at heart. She holds a Master’s degree in Commerce and is a fitness enthusiast who incorporates yoga and meditation into her routine.
The Rising Stars:
- Smriti Mandhana (Women’s Rohit Sharma): This explosive batter isn’t just about power hitting. Smriti is a talented artist who enjoys sketching portraits in her free time, showcasing her creative side.
- Harmanpreet Kaur (The Lioness): Harmanpreet, a fearless leader and role model for aspiring young girls, has a hidden musical talent. She plays the dhol, a traditional Indian drum, adding another dimension to her vibrant personality.
- Poonam Yadav (The Spin Sensation): This wily leg-spinner isn’t just about outsmarting batters. Poonam finds joy in spending time with her family and enjoys cooking traditional Indian meals, bringing her love for home into the team environment.
Beyond Cricket:
- Double Duty: Before cricket took center stage, some players pursued other careers. Ekta Bisht, a former bowling sensation, was a national-level athlete in shot put, showcasing her diverse athletic talents.
- Philanthropic Efforts: Leading by example, Mithali Raj is actively involved in promoting women’s education in India. She understands the importance of empowering young girls and uses her platform to make a positive impact.
- Unexpected Hobbies: Cricketers have diverse interests outside the sport. Smriti Mandhana loves dogs and actively supports animal welfare causes. Deepti Sharma, a rising all-rounder, is a chess enthusiast, showcasing her strategic mind extends beyond the cricket field.
Memorable Moments:
- Jhulan Goswami’s Farewell: Jhulan’s emotional farewell series in 2022, with fans chanting her name and showing immense respect for her legendary career, is a testament to her impact on the sport.
- Harmanpreet Kaur’s Innings of the Century: Harmanpreet’s powerful knock of 171 runs against Australia in the 2017 World Cup was a turning point, not just for the match, but for inspiring a generation of young girls to dream big.
