Sachin Tendulkar: The Left Pad First Rule
Even the 'God of Cricket' wasn't immune to the allure of a good luck charm. For his entire 24-year international career, Sachin Tendulkar strictly followed one pre-match ritual: always putting on his left pad before his right. This small act became a non-negotiable
part of his preparation, a way to mentally get into the zone before facing the world's best bowlers. Beyond the pads, Tendulkar was also known to be deeply attached to his bats, famously having a favourite bat repaired multiple times leading up to the 2011 World Cup because he believed it was lucky for him. These habits, whether seemingly small or significant, were part of the meticulous preparation that defined his legendary career.
Virat Kohli: From Gloves to 'Kada'
Modern-day icon Virat Kohli has also gone through phases of superstitious habits. Earlier in his career, he was known for wearing the same pair of gloves that had brought him runs, continuing with them until they were almost falling apart. While he has since moved on from that specific habit, he has adopted others. Kohli has mentioned his preference for batting in white shoes, feeling they help him get into a specific performance mindset. Perhaps his most consistent lucky charm has been a 'kada' (a traditional bracelet) that he has worn since 2012, which remains an indispensable part of his on-field presence.
Sourav Ganguly: Rings, Gurus, and No Shaving
Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, known for his aggressive leadership, had a collection of rituals. A spiritual person, Ganguly always carried a photo of his guru in his pocket while on the field. He was also known for wearing multiple rings and chains, which were believed to bring him luck. One of his more unusual superstitions was related to shaving; during Test matches, he would avoid shaving for the five days of the game in the hope it would lead to a victory. These varied practices were all part of the armoury for the 'Prince of Kolkata' as he led India through a transformative era.
Zaheer Khan: The Lucky Yellow Handkerchief
For Indian pace spearhead Zaheer Khan, his good luck charm was a simple but essential item: a yellow handkerchief. During crucial matches, and especially throughout India's victorious 2011 World Cup campaign, Khan would always carry this yellow handkerchief in his pocket. He was the joint-highest wicket-taker in that tournament, and for him, the handkerchief was a constant source of belief and consistency. This small piece of cloth became a signature part of his on-field persona, a psychological anchor during high-stakes encounters.
Rahul Dravid: The Right Thigh Pad First
Known as 'The Wall' for his impeccable technique and unbreakable focus, Rahul Dravid also had a specific pre-match routine. In a direct contrast to his long-time teammate Sachin Tendulkar, Dravid made it a point to always put on his right thigh pad first before every single game. While a simple habit, it was a fixed part of his process of getting ready for battle at the crease. This ritual highlights that even for a player celebrated for his textbook correctness and mental fortitude, a small, consistent routine was a key part of his mental preparation before stepping onto the pitch.
