Cricket is the most loved sport of India. Cricketers are significant figures of this country and are looked upon as role models. Although it’s not only Indian cricketers who are loved in India, numerous foreign cricketers receive love and respect from the Indian crowd. An IPL has played a decisive role in shaping this slice of the game. Players from different countries have developed a cordial relation with each other and the crowd. From naming their child after the country’s name to proposing their fiancé at the Taj, players have shown their love, and affection for the country and it was reciprocated by the country’s people. Here we present to you the top 10 most loved foreign cricketers in India.
1. AB De Villiers
Apart from his game, Mr. 360 is loved for his generosity and cool behavior. And, this is one of the reasons why he got along well with the Indian fans. The RCB batsman is widely loved in India, especially by the RCB fans, since he is a prolific run-getter for the team. Fans often view him as a gentleman for his calm behavior on and off the field. De Villers even said to name his third child “TAJ” after the name of Taj Mahal, where he proposed to his girlfriend, now his wife, for marriage.
2. Chris Gayle
The most destructive batsman of the century, Chris Gayle, is known for hitting humongous sixes. His frivolous and boisterous personality helped him to mix up with the wild Indian crowd. Not only do Indian fans enjoy his batting but also his dance moves. Indian fans have adopted him as their player and cheer for him rhapsodically during the matches.
3. Kane Williamson
How could anyone on earth ever hate this guy? An absolute gentleman of the game, The Kiwi Captain, is admired by many Indians. A batsman with a solid temperament and technique, Williamson believes in no extreme sledging. He is seen displaying a placating gesture on the field. His quality of being sangfroid even in the most demanding situation makes him Indian fans’ favorite. SRH fans are completely in awe of their captain’s ability.
4. Adam Gilchrist
An explosive batsman and excellent wicketkeeper of his generation, Gilchrist was known for his fair play and sportsmanship. He was never a part of unnecessary sledging, unlike Ponting and McGrath. Gilchrist was a gentleman among animals. Apart from his batting, what made Indians fall for him was his serene attitude. He was a part of Deccan Chargers and the KXIP, where he was immensely loved by the crowd.
5. DJ Bravo
It is no secret how well west Indian players jell up with the Indian Fans. Bravo is no exception; from dancing with the crowd to calling India his second home, he made himself home. The whole nation vibes to his “champion.” It won’t be wrong to mention that he is Chennai’s son; despite, being from another country, CSK fans embraced him.
6. Lasith Malinga
The highest wicket-taker of IPL, Malinga has a broad fan base in India. The veteran cricketer was never involved in controversies and focused on bowling toe-crushing Yorkers. When he announced his retirement, he received many notes and presents from Indian fans. From his curls to his Yorkers, everything seems to be adored by fans.
7. Brett Lee
Former Australian cricketer Brett Lee was a star pacer of his time. He worked with the legendary Indian singer Asha Bhosle and acted in a movie named “Unindian” which probably increased his fan base in the Country. And as he says, Indian hospitality never fails to woo him.
8. Dale Steyn
One of the best to have graced South African Cricket, Dale Steyn is one of the most celebrated bowlers of the world. Every Indian has at least once tried to copy Steyn’s bowling action while playing gully cricket. And, this is enough to show how Steyn and his bowling is loved in Indian households. Steyn’s down-to-earth personality and fierceness made him popular among his juniors and fans.
9. Stephen Fleming
Arguably the best Kiwi Skipper, Fleming is currently the head coach of Chennai Super Kings. No matter how tense the situation is, he never seems to lose his cool. Not just fans, even his fellow cricketers have praised his tactical skills and his character.
10. David Warner
Well, thanks to IPL that helped foreign players jell up with the Indian crowd. Warner’s love for India is evident through his social media account, where he keeps posting reels of him dancing on the Indian songs; he never shied away from showing his love for the Indian culture. And, in turn, he received admiration and love from the Indian Fans.
