In India, cricket and cinema are two of the biggest obsessions. So, when the stars of the silver screen showcase their love for the gentlemen's game, it creates a unique connection. Here are five Bollywood stars whose passion for cricket is undeniable.
Shah Rukh Khan: The King of KKR
It’s impossible to talk about Bollywood and cricket without mentioning Shah Rukh Khan. His involvement goes far beyond simple fandom; he is the co-owner of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Since the league's inception, Khan has been the face of the franchise, known for his passionate and often emotional presence in the stands. Whether he's celebrating a win, consoling players after a loss, or doing his signature cartwheel on the field, his energy is infectious. His love for the game isn't just for show; he was an avid sportsman in his school and college days. Fans often look forward to his post-match interactions with players from both his team and the opposition, and his gestures, like picking up discarded KKR flags from the stands, often win hearts online.
Preity Zinta: The Ever-Present Owner
Another star who took her cricket passion to the next level is Preity Zinta. As the co-owner of the Punjab Kings (formerly Kings XI Punjab), she has been one of the most hands-on and visible owners in the IPL. Her constant presence at matches, dressed in team colours, and her active participation during the player auctions show a deep commitment to the sport. Zinta's enthusiasm is palpable, and she shares in the team's highs and lows with genuine emotion. She is known for her warm interactions with fans and players alike. In one instance, she personally called a spectator who was injured by a six during a match to check on his recovery, even promising him a helmet for his next visit to the stadium.
Ranveer Singh: The Ultimate Fanboy
Ranveer Singh’s energy is legendary, and it extends fully to his love for cricket. His passion was immortalised on screen when he portrayed former Indian captain Kapil Dev in the film '83', which chronicled India's historic 1983 World Cup victory. Singh called the film a tribute to a moment that changed Indian history. Beyond his professional work, he is a hardcore fan of the Indian cricket team and is often seen cheering with unmatched zeal from the stands during crucial matches. His love for the game is not just about watching; it's about embodying the spirit of a true supporter, making him one of the most relatable celebrity fans in the country.
Abhishek Bachchan: A Lifelong Devotee
Abhishek Bachchan's connection to sports is deep-rooted, with some of his earliest memories being of watching Test cricket with his father, Amitabh Bachchan. He has described himself as a huge sports fan, and his passion is evident in his public support for Indian teams. While he also co-owns teams in Kabaddi and football, his love for cricket remains profound. Recently, his involvement has deepened as a co-founder of the European T20 Premier League, a move aimed at expanding cricket's reach. In a special moment, he received a signed jersey from the legendary Rahul Dravid, acknowledging his support for the game. His film choices also reflect this passion, having starred in and produced the cricket-themed film 'Ghoomer'.
Suniel Shetty: From Fan to Family
Suniel Shetty's bond with cricket is multi-layered and deeply personal. Having wanted to be a cricketer before becoming an actor, his passion for the sport has been lifelong. He has been a regular in celebrity cricket tournaments for years. His connection to the sport became even stronger when his daughter, Athiya Shetty, married star cricketer KL Rahul. Shetty has shared that he was a fan of Rahul's talent long before they became family, calling their first meeting a "fanboy moment." While he avoids discussing cricket careers at home, his respect for the game and its players is evident. He has also expressed regret for not buying an IPL team in the early days, underscoring his long-standing interest in being involved with the sport at a professional level.
