Angad Bedi: A Cricketing Legacy
Many know Angad Bedi as a versatile actor from films like 'Pink' and 'Soorma', but his first career path was firmly on the cricket pitch. This isn't entirely surprising when you learn that his father was the legendary Indian spinner, Bishan Singh Bedi.
Angad followed in his father's footsteps, playing professionally for Delhi's Under-19 team. He has spoken about the discipline and never-say-die attitude the sport instilled in him, lessons that he carried into his acting career. While he eventually chose the silver screen over the stadium, his connection to the game remains a fundamental part of his identity.
Saqib Saleem: From State Player to Star
Before he made his debut in films like 'Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge', Saqib Saleem was a dedicated cricketer. He played state-level cricket for both Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir, harbouring serious ambitions of one day playing for the national team. In interviews, he has mentioned having a life-sized poster of Sachin Tendulkar on his wall, a testament to his passion for the sport. A twist of fate and a growing interest in acting led him to Mumbai and eventually into Bollywood. In a full-circle moment, his acting career brought him back to the pitch when he played the role of Mohinder Amarnath in the film '83'.
Suniel Shetty: Captain of the Stars
Suniel Shetty's love for cricket goes far beyond that of a casual fan. The action star has been a prominent and passionate figure in the Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) for years, serving as the captain of the Mumbai Heroes team. His involvement isn't just for show; Shetty, who apparently always wanted to be a cricketer, takes the league seriously, bringing his characteristic intensity to the field. He is also the co-founder of the Ferit Cricket Bash, another venture that merges the worlds of entertainment and cricket. His daughter, Athiya Shetty, is also married to Indian cricketer KL Rahul, further deepening his family's connection to the sport.
Shah Rukh Khan: More Than an Owner
Shah Rukh Khan's connection to cricket is famously tied to his co-ownership of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). However, his link to the sport is more personal than just a business investment. Long before the IPL began, SRK was an avid cricketer himself during his college and early years in Delhi. Photos from the 1980s show a young Khan actively playing the game. This lifelong passion is what drove him to invest in a team, and his hands-on, emotionally charged presence at KKR matches shows that he is more than just a proprietor; he is a genuine fan of the sport.
Preity Zinta: The Hands-On Franchise Co-Owner
Like Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta is well-known as the co-owner of an IPL team, the Punjab Kings. She became one of the few women to be a franchise owner back in 2008. What is surprising to many is the depth of her involvement. She is not a passive investor but a passionate and hands-on leader who is deeply engaged with team strategy, auctions, and player morale. Her visible presence and emotional investment during matches have made her synonymous with her team. Despite the ups and downs of the league, her commitment has been a constant, showcasing a business acumen and love for the sport that goes beyond her celebrity status.
