Cricket is a sport that requires immense dedication, perseverance, and hard work. Many cricketers have experienced moments of doubt and frustration in their careers, where they have considered quitting the game. However, some have pushed through these difficult times and gone on to achieve great success and become legends of the sport. Here are the top 10 cricketers who almost quit the game before achieving greatness.
1. Sachin Tendulkar
The Little Master had a rough time in the early years of his career, struggling with injuries and inconsistent form. He even considered quitting the game after his continued poor performances in the mid-90s. However, with the help of his coach and family, he persevered and went on to become one of the greatest batsmen of all time.
2. Vvs Laxman
Vvs Laxman is a legendary Indian cricketer who almost quit the game before achieving greatness. Laxman was dropped from the Indian team multiple times early in his career as a cricketer and even contemplated quitting cricket to focus on his studies. However, he continued to work hard and eventually returned to the national team, playing a crucial role in India's historic victory against Australia in 2001.
3. Brian Lara
The West Indian legend Brian Lara had a tumultuous start to his career after being dropped from the team after just one series. He was affected by personal tragedies and almost quit the game in 1994. However, he bounced back and scored a record-breaking 400 not out against England in 2004.
4. Ricky Ponting
Ricky Ponting had a rough time in his early years, struggling to establish himself in the Australian team. He even considered quitting cricket to become a carpenter at one point. However, he persisted and became one of the most successful captains in cricket history.
5. Mahendra Singh Dhoni
Before Mahendra Singh Dhoni became the captain of the Indian team and led them to multiple ICC trophies, Dhoni had a tough time breaking into the national side. He even considered quitting cricket and joining the army. However, he persevered and eventually became one of the most successful Indian cricketers.
6. James Anderson
James Anderson had a tough start to his international career, struggling with form and injuries. He was even dropped from the England team in 2002 and considered quitting the game. However, he continued to work hard and eventually became England's all-time leading wicket-taker in Test cricket.
7. Anil Kumble
Anil Kumble had a tough time in his early years, being dropped from the Indian team multiple times. He even contemplated quitting cricket to become a software engineer. However, he persevered and became one of India's greatest bowlers, taking 619 Test wickets in his profession.
8. Steve Waugh
Steve Waugh had a difficult start to his international career, struggling with poor form and injury. He even considered quitting cricket to pursue a career in law. However, he persisted and became one of Australia's most successful captains.
9. Imran Khan
Imran Khan is a former Pakistani cricketer who almost quit the game before achieving greatness. The Pakistan legend had a tough start to his career, struggling with poor form and injuries. Imran Khan even considered quitting cricket to pursue a career in politics. However, he persevered and eventually became one of Pakistan's greatest cricketers, leading them to victory in the 1992 World Cup.
10. Kumar Sangakkara
Kumar Sangakkara, the former Sri Lankan cricket captain, had a difficult start to his career, struggling with poor form and inconsistent performances. He even contemplated quitting cricket to become a lawyer. However, he continued to work hard and eventually became one of Sri Lanka's greatest batsmen and one of the most successful wicket-keepers in the world.
