Sourav Ganguly: The Dada of Bengali Television
Perhaps the most successful cricketer-turned-host, Sourav Ganguly has become a titan of Bengali television. For over a decade, he was the face of the wildly popular quiz show 'Dadagiri Unlimited', where his authoritative yet charming presence made him
a household name all over again. His command over the format and connection with the audience was undeniable. Recently, Ganguly made another power play, moving to host the Bengali version of the global reality show phenomenon, 'Bigg Boss Bangla'. This switch solidified his status not just as a former captain, but as a premier television personality who has mastered the art of engaging a primetime audience.
Rohit Sharma: The Hitman's Newest Innings
The latest superstar to join the hosting club is Rohit Sharma. The former Indian captain made his television debut in September 2026 with 'Family Full House', a family-oriented game show. The show, which follows the popular 'Family Feud' format, sees Sharma bring his signature calm and witty demeanour from the cricket field to the studio. By interacting with celebrity guests and their families in a fun, informal setting, he is showcasing a different side of his personality. His entry marks a significant moment, proving that even current, top-tier cricketers see the appeal of connecting with fans through a different medium.
Virender Sehwag: From Power Hitting to Power Plays
Known for his fearless batting and equally sharp wit on social media, Virender Sehwag is a natural fit for television. He is set to host the second season of the reality show 'Rise and Fall', taking over from Ashneer Grover. The show's concept, revolving around power dynamics and strategy, seems tailor-made for a sportsman who understood the art of calculated risks. Sehwag himself noted that cricket taught him that no game is won until the last ball, a mindset he brings to his hosting duties. This isn't his first time in the host's chair; he previously hosted the inspiring series 'Umeed India', where he profiled Indian athletes on their journey to the Olympics.
Navjot Singh Sidhu: The Laughing Cavalier
Long before it became a common career move, Navjot Singh Sidhu set the blueprint for a cricketer's life after the game. While more of a judge and permanent guest than a traditional host, his impact on Indian television is undeniable. For years, he was the soul of comedy shows, most famously alongside Kapil Sharma, where his booming laughter and endless supply of 'Sidhuisms' became iconic. His long-standing presence on shows like 'The Great Indian Laughter Challenge' and 'Comedy Nights with Kapil' made him one of the most recognizable faces on television, proving that a cricketer's personality could be as big a draw as their on-field heroics.
Harbhajan Singh: The Turbanator Turns Talk Show Host
Never one to shy away from expressing himself, Harbhajan Singh has also embraced the world of entertainment. He recently launched a chat show titled 'Who's The Boss' alongside his wife, actress Geeta Basra. The show offers an intimate look into the lives of other cricketers and their spouses, exploring the dynamics of their relationships. This format allows Harbhajan to leverage his camaraderie with his peers, creating a comfortable space for heartfelt conversations that go beyond the usual sports analysis. It’s a move that taps into public curiosity about the personal lives of their sporting heroes.
The Next Generation: Shikhar and Jadeja
The trend continues with other beloved players. Shikhar Dhawan, known for his cheerful 'Gabbar' persona, has hosted shows like 'Dhawan Karenge with Shikhar Dhawan' and the web series 'Cricket Darbar'. His relaxed style makes for easy-going interviews with fellow sports and entertainment stars. Going further back, Ajay Jadeja was one of the early pioneers, hosting the talent hunt 'Scorpio Speedster' in 2005, a show aimed at finding India's next great fast bowler. These examples show that for cricketers of every era, television offers a platform to extend their brand and connect with the nation in a whole new way.
