Cricket is often considered a gentleman's game, but there are captains over the years who have found themselves at the center of controversies due to their actions on and off the field. This list explores the top 10 most controversial cricket captains in history, from Hansie Cronje's involvement in match-fixing to Sourav Ganguly's aggressive behavior toward the opposition. These captains have not only damaged their standing but also disgraced the sport.

1. Hansie Cronje 

Hansie Cronje is regarded as one of the most disputable captains in the history of cricket, having been the former leader of the South African cricket squad, which led to his ban from cricket and tarnished his reputation. Despite his successful career, his involvement in corruption remains a dark stain on his legacy.

2. Mohammad Azharuddin 

Mohammad Azharuddin, the former Indian cricket captain, is considered one of the most controversial figures in cricketing history. After being convicted of match-fixing, he was handed a lifetime ban from cricket in 2000. The scandal shocked the cricketing world and tarnished Azharuddin's legacy as a successful captain. He remains a controversial figure, with his involvement in the scandal still a topic of debate in the cricketing community.

3. Saleem Malik 

Saleem Malik, the former captain of the Pakistan cricket team, is considered one of the most controversial captains in cricket history due to his alleged involvement in match-fixing. In 2000, he was banned for life by the Pakistan Cricket Board after an investigation found him guilty of offering bribes to other players to lose matches. Although he has repeatedly denied his wrongdoing, his image as a captain is completely stained.

4. Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib Al Hasan, the former captain of Bangladesh's cricket team, has been involved in various controversies throughout his career. In 2014, he was banned from cricket for six months due to a misconduct charge, and in 2019, he received a two-year ban (one year suspended) for failing to report corrupt approaches. These incidents have marred his reputation and raised questions about his integrity as a captain.

5. Steve Smith 

Steve Smith, former Australian captain, was involved in a ball-tampering scandal during a Test match against South Africa in 2018. He was found guilty and subsequently banned from international and domestic cricket for a year. The incident tarnished his reputation as a captain and player, and he stepped down as captain following the ban. Later Smith returned to the national team, but the controversy remains a significant part of his legacy.

6. Mohammad Amir 

Mohammad Amir is a controversial cricket player rather than a captain. He was banned from cricket for five years due to his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal. At the time of his ban, he was considered a highly talented young player, and his suspension was not good for the sport. Nevertheless, after returning to international cricket in 2016, Amir has been giving impressive performances for Pakistan.

7. Mike Gatting 

Mike Gatting, former England captain, is remembered for his infamous altercation with Pakistani umpire Shakoor Rana during a 1987-88 tour. This event caused the tour to halt briefly and damaged Gatting's standing. He was also criticized for leading England to a series defeat against the West Indies and for his controversial decision to drop Phil Edmonds in favor of John Emburey during the 1987 World Cup.

8. Nasser Hussain 

Nasser Hussain, the former captain of the England cricket team, was known for his controversial tactics on and off the field. Some people believed that the way he was leading the squad was too forceful and caused conflict, leading to criticism directed toward him. Hussain was also involved in several controversies, including the infamous "dirt in the pocket" incident during a match against Pakistan in 2001. However, he is still considered one of the most triumphant captains of England, despite that.

9. Sourav Ganguly 

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain, had a reputation for being aggressive and confrontational, Frequently resulting in disputes, both during and outside the game. He was involved in several conflicts, including the infamous 'shirt waving' incident at Lord's in 2002.

10. Arjuna Ranatunga 

Arjuna Ranatunga, the former Sri Lankan captain, was involved in many controversies during his time in this sport, including leading his team off the field in the 1996 World Cup. During his time as captain, he faced match-fixing allegations, but later he was cleared of all charges. Nonetheless, he remains a revered figure in Sri Lankan cricket.