All Around The World: 5 Indian-Origin Cricketers Who Play for Foreign Teams

Rachin Ravindra's father is from Bengaluru [Source: @ICC/x.com]

Cricket has always been a bridge across cultures, a phenomenon that connects players with fans from all around the world. In a sport where origin often dictates allegiance, some players of Indian descent have charted their own course, representing nations beyond the Indian subcontinent.

In this article, we take a close look at five such cricketers who have left a mark on international cricket while donning the colours of non-Indian teams.

5. Saurabh Netravalkar - USA

Saurabh Netravalkar - USA [Source: @ICC/x.com]

Saurabh Netravalkar, a talented left-arm fast bowler from Mumbai, began his career as a promising pacer for India’s U-19 team. However, life took an unexpected turn when he moved to the United States, where he became a linchpin in their cricketing setup.

Netravalkar has quickly adapted to American cricket, becoming a prominent figure in both ODIs and T20Is as witnessed during the T20 World Cup 2024. His stats reflect his disciplined and impactful bowling.

His success in the USA has made him a trailblazer, showcasing how talent can thrive in unexpected places and opening doors for cricket’s growth in North America.

4. Rachin Ravindra - New Zealand

Rachin Ravindra - New Zealand [Source: @cricketworldcup/x.com]

Named after Indian greats Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar, Rachin Ravindra is the epitome of promise and versatility in New Zealand cricket.

Born in Wellington to Indian parents, Ravindra quickly rose through New Zealand’s cricketing ranks, gaining attention for his left-handed batting and useful left-arm spin and he is now a mainstay across formats for the Kiwis.

Ravindra’s all-round ability and natural confidence make him an exciting asset for New Zealand and a name to watch for years to come.

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3. Keshav Maharaj - South Africa

Keshav Maharaj - South Africa [Source: @ICC/x.com]

Born and raised in Durban to Indian parents, Keshav Maharaj has established himself as a premier left-arm spinner for South Africa, a team traditionally reliant on pace. Maharaj’s journey as a spinner in South Africa’s pace-heavy attack is a story of exceptional skill.

Maharaj’s success with South Africa shows that even in a team of fierce pace bowlers, a quality spinner can be a game-changer, especially on spin-friendly tracks.

2. Nasser Hussain - England

Nasser Hussain - England [Source: @ICC/facebook.com]

Nasser Hussain, born in Chennai, and raised in England, was known for his fierce determination and tactical mind. Representing England during a challenging era, Hussain’s legacy isn’t just in his statistics but in his role in transforming England’s cricketing approach.

Under his captaincy, Hussain focused on discipline and strategic thinking, lifting England’s competitiveness in Test cricket. Hussain’s contributions went beyond runs and wickets; he was the catalyst for change in English cricket, bringing a sense of pride and aggression that set the foundation for England’s resurgence.

1. Hashim Amla - South Africa

Hashim Amla - South Africa [Source: @ICC/x.com]

Hashim Amla, with roots tracing back to Gujarat, India, is one of South Africa’s finest batsmen, celebrated for his consistency, elegance, and sportsmanship. 

Known for his quiet but relentless approach, Amla amassed a remarkable 9282 runs in 124 Tests at an average of 46.6, including a top score of 311 not out—the highest by a South African in Test cricket. His 28 centuries and 41 fifties in Tests show his commitment to the team.

Amla’s elegance on the field, paired with his impeccable temperament, made him one of South Africa’s greatest batting icons, and his legacy will be remembered as one of cricket’s timeless stories.

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