Cricket, often hailed as the gentleman’s game, is a sport that encapsulates the essence of teamwork, dedication, and humility. While the spotlight invariably falls on the eleven players gracing the pitch, there exists an unsung hero who plays an equally vital role in the team’s success—the waterboy. In this article, we delve into the intriguing world of cricketers who have been waterboys and unveil five iconic players who, despite their star status, embraced this role with humility and grace.
5 Legendary Cricketers Who Served Drinks On The Field:
MS Dhoni:
MS Dhoni, a name synonymous with cricketing excellence, is renowned for his lightning-quick glovework, impeccable leadership skills, and finishing prowess with the willow. However, it’s not just his cricketing abilities that have earned him accolades; it’s his humility and dedication to the game that truly set him apart.
In 2012, during the Tri-Series featuring Australia and Sri Lanka, cricket enthusiasts witnessed Dhoni carrying energy drinks for the Indian batsmen. Five years later, he reprised his role as a waterboy during a warm-up match at the Champions Trophy. In 2018, during India’s 2nd T20I against Ireland, he once again took on the duty of serving drinks and carrying kit bags for his teammates.
Look who is carrying drinks for @ImRaina . @msdhoni will and forever remain a role model for any youngsters . #Respect #INDvIRE pic.twitter.com/8G3UehNi5z
— Debasis Sen (@debasissen) June 29, 2018
#2 Virat Kohli
The 2017 Test series between India and Australia was a cricketing spectacle of epic proportions. Virat Kohli, India’s charismatic captain, led his team against one of the world’s best sides. While Kohli’s availability for the series-deciding 4th Test was in doubt due to a shoulder injury, his commitment to the team remained unwavering.
Despite sitting out of the match, Kohli made a memorable contribution as a waterboy. During the game, he was seen tirelessly bringing drinks for his teammates on the field, demonstrating his dedication to the team’s cause.
Virat loving it out there #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/qHe62jgqwf
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) March 25, 2017
#3 Sachin Tendulkar
Sachin Tendulkar, often referred to as the ‘Master Blaster,’ boasts a career filled with records and accolades. Yet, it’s not just his cricketing prowess that endeared him to fans worldwide; it’s his down-to-earth nature and humility.
In 2005, during a charity game between ICC World XI and Asia XI, Tendulkar was spotted carrying drinks on the field for his team. This act of selflessness further solidified his status as a fan-favorite and a true ambassador of the sport.
— venu_gopal_rao_fans (@CricketVideos16) January 13, 2020
#4 Ricky Ponting
Ricky Ponting, one of the most uncompromising cricketers of his generation, is celebrated for his batting genius and leadership skills. However, his commitment to the game extended beyond his batting crease.
In 2011, during a practice match between Australia and Sri Lanka Board XI, Ponting embraced the role of a waterboy. He didn’t shy away from carrying drinks and towels for his teammates, setting an example of humility and dedication.
#5 Sir Don Bradman
In the annals of cricket history, **Sir Don Bradman** stands as an unrivaled legend. His incredible record of 29 Test centuries and 13 fifties in just 52 Tests, along with over 28,000 runs in 234 first-class games, solidify his status as the greatest batsman the sport has ever witnessed.
However, Bradman’s contribution to the team wasn’t limited to his batting prowess. In 1928, following a challenging Test debut against England in Brisbane, he was dropped from the Australian playing XI for the 2nd Test. Undeterred, Bradman took on the role of a waterboy, serving drinks to his teammates on the field. He also fielded tirelessly after his teammate Bill Ponsford broke his little finger.
ALSO READ Rohit Sharma Is Getting Trolled For Dropping Virat Kohli And Scoring A Duck
In the grand tapestry of cricket, the waterboys play an indispensable role. They symbolize selflessness, teamwork, and dedication to the game. These five iconic players—MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, and Sir Don Bradman—exemplify these qualities, reminding us that even the biggest stars can humbly embrace the role of a waterboy when the team needs them.
So, the next time you watch a cricket match, spare a thought for these unsung heroes who, despite their star status, chose to serve their teams with a water bottle in hand and a heart full of dedication.
