Many cricketers have successfully transitioned to different professions after retiring from the sport. Some have gone on to pursue entirely unexpected career paths with great success. This list features ten such cricketers whose second professions are surprising. From horse training to brewing beer, from politics to acting, these cricketers have skills and interests beyond the cricket pitch. Their accomplishments in their second careers are a testament to their versatility and determination. Here are the top 10 most astonishing alternate professions of cricketers.
1. Rashid Khan
As a professional cricketer, Rashid Khan, the leg-spinner from Afghanistan, serves as a full-time ambassador for the Afghanistan Cricket Board in addition to his cricketing commitments. Rashid Khan takes his role as an ambassador very seriously and works to promote the sport of cricket in Afghanistan. In addition, he has also been involved in charitable work and has donated money to help support those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in Afghanistan.
2. Dwayne Bravo
Dwayne Bravo, the West Indies all-rounder, is a professional singer and has released several songs. He has been passionate about music from a young age and has pursued it as a second career alongside his cricketing commitments. He has released several popular songs. Bravo has also performed in concerts and music festivals and is known for his contribution to music with several awards. He mentioned in interviews that music is a way for him to express his creativity and connect with people differently.
3. Adam Hollioake
Adam Hollioake, the former England captain, is a professional mixed martial artist and has won several fights. After retiring from cricket, Hollioake took up martial arts and eventually became a professional fighter. He has competed in several battles, including bouts in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and other mixed martial arts organizations. Hollioake has mentioned in interviews that he was attracted to martial arts because of its physical challenges and the discipline and focuses it requires. He has also used his martial arts skills to train other athletes.
4. Brendon Mccullum
Formerly the captain of New Zealand, Brendon McCullum now makes a living as a horse trainer, overseeing a stable of racehorses. For several years, McCullum has been actively engaged in horse racing, displaying a great fondness for the breeding and training of racehorses. In addition to his work in horse racing, McCullum has also been involved in various business ventures and has invested in the fitness industry.
5. Moeen Ali
Moeen Ali, the England all-rounder, is a professional public speaker and has given speeches on topics such as Islam and cricket. Moeen Ali is known for being a devout Muslim and has used his platform as a cricketer to promote greater understanding and tolerance of Islam. He has given speeches at schools, universities, and several institutions. In addition, Moeen has also been involved in various charitable causes and has donated money and time to support education and healthcare initiatives in the UK and abroad.
6. Mahela Jayawardene
Mahela Jayawardene, the former Sri Lankan captain, is a co-owner of a chain of luxury hotels in Sri Lanka. Jayawardene is a successful entrepreneur. He is involved in various business ventures outside of cricket. Along with his business partner, he co-owns a chain of luxury hotels in Sri Lanka, including the well-known "Lantern Hotels" and "Cantaloupe Hotels" brands. He mentioned in interviews that his work in business and philanthropy is a way for him to give back to his community and contribute to the development of his country.
7. Michael Vaughan
Michael Vaughan, the former England captain, is a cricket commentator and has worked for several TV networks. Since retiring from cricket, Vaughan has been involved in the media industry and has worked as a commentator and analyst for various broadcasting networks. In addition, Vaughan has also been involved in several charitable causes and has supported initiatives related to education and health.
8. Kevin Pietersen
Kevin Pietersen, the former England batsman, is a professional golfer and has played in several golf tournaments. He has worked as a commentator and analyst for various broadcasters, providing expert analysis on cricket matches and players. Pietersen has also worked as a model, featuring in campaigns for brands such as Puma and Hugo Boss. In addition, he has written several books, including his autobiography "KP: The Autobiography" and a children's book. In interviews, he stated that he loves pursuing different passions and interests. Having retired from cricket, he views it as a chance to delve into fresh opportunities and create a constructive influence in diverse domains.
9. Ab De Villiers
AB de Villiers, the former South African captain, is a professional singer and has released several songs. De Villiers is known for his musical talent and knows how to play a few instruments. He has released several albums in South Africa. In addition to his music career, de Villiers has been involved in various philanthropic causes and has supported initiatives related to education and healthcare. He mentioned in interviews that he has a passion for music and enjoys the creative process of writing and performing songs.
10. Kumar Sangakkara
Kumar Sangakkara, the former Sri Lankan cricket captain, is a prominent lawyer and has served as the president of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). Sangakkara completed his law degree from the University of Colombo and has been practicing law in Sri Lanka. He has also served as the president of the prestigious MCC. In addition to his legal and administrative work, Sangakkara has also been involved in various philanthropic causes and has supported initiatives related to education and healthcare.
