In a country like India, where cricket is preached like a religion and cricketers are worshipped like gods, it is always difficult to judge the fans’ emotions when the fanbase includes all age groups.
Indian fan following has players from other countries also but Indian players, whether they are modern-day cricketers or past players, they are at the top of the list. But, on the other hand, if we talk about Indian cricketers, Indian players also have a large amount of fan-following overseas.
These cricketers have proved their worth time and again during crunch situations which have upgraded them to this level where they have such a large amount of fan-following overseas.
Along with their match-winning abilities, they always carried a charisma that separated them from others. Moreover, these cricketers possessed a combination of flamboyance in their playing style along with a fearless attitude which might have made them famous outside India.
This article will take a look at five cricketers (not in any order) who are most liked outside India.
#5 Sachin Tendulkar
Many would have thought that maybe after the arrival of MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar’s popularity might have gone down. Still, the former India opener has billions of fans outside India. This is because the former skipper’s batting was pure class during his playing days. His batting displays motivated the next generation of players to represent the national side.
He was known for his disciplined attitude on and off the field, as no one questioned his integrity towards the national side. Tendulkar’s performances are still discussed in many countries. He played a significant role in India’s 2011 World Cup win.
A player who retired a decade ago and still attracts more than 36 million followers on Instagram showcases his quality as a batsman and a mild-mannered individual.
#4 Rahul Dravid
Arguably one of the most stylish openers in modern-day cricket, Rahul Dravid amazed everyone with his elegant yet effortless strokeplay. Likewise, his defense was rock solid. The former skipper has a large fan following outside India, as his charming and calm personality is loved globally.
“The Wall,” as he is fondly called, was an integral part of a world-class batting line-up during the 1990s and 2000s consisting of Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, and VVS Laxman. The right-hander’s calm temperament and cool head made him the most respected cricketer. Even amongst the younger fans from other countries, he is still a revered figure.
#3 MS Dhoni
The former skipper has always led a simple life during his playing career and after retirement. His simplicity and ice-cool nature on the field were loved by billions of fans outside India. Moreover, the right-hander entertained everyone with his enigmatic and destructive batting. Dhoni was India’s best finisher during that period, and his ability to maintain calm under pressure surprised everyone.
His wicket-keeping skills were equally praised, as many upcoming cricketers still follow his technique. Dhoni maintained friendly relations off the field even though it would be the ground staff preparing pitches. The former wicket-keeper batsman has more than 39 million followers on Instagram itself. Dhoni attracts a massive amount of crowd outside India.
#2 Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma is a popular figure amongst fans outside India. The Indian Captain’s effortless timing has been a treat to watch for the fans, as well as his good looks. The skipper is amongst the most elegant modern-day batters. The opener has some exciting records to his name. His fan following outside India also includes many female fans. His batting is all about lazy elegance.
Rohit is one of those rare modern-day batters who might look old-fashioned sometimes but is quite effective in all forms of the game. Moreover, his stylish looks and playing style have attracted millions of followers outside India.
#1 Virat Kohli
One of the most striking and stylish cricketers of the current generation, Kohli has billions of fans outside India, including female followers. The former skipper’s aggression on and off the field is criticised by some, but the right-hander is full of intensity.
He has won many games single-handedly. He is a combination of charisma and a fearless attitude. Kohli is one of the finest batters of the current generation who can adjust his technique and playing style according to formats.
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