In today’s cricket-obsessed world, players are constantly under scrutiny as they are the biggest role models for some youngsters out there. Whatever they do, be it endorsing a brand, speaking a certain way or dressing a certain style, they are constantly being observed by youngsters all over the world.
One space where cricketers have become more and more aware is personal grooming. Gone are the days when players would head out with no care about the way they looked. Now, beards seem to be ruling the roost when it comes to facial hair style and here are players with the best beards in today’s game:
Ben Stokes (7/10)
The Ginger prince of England – A term that was used to once describe the legendary footballer Paul Scholes seems to apply to Stokes too. The Englishman has become more and more prominent in England’s conquests around the world and his beard seem to be growing more and more in style.
Stokes is an all-rounder who is on the up and his red beard seems to give him an aura of ruggedness that was missing from the English squad until now. Let’s hope that the beard sticks on and continues to exude blistering form all year long.
Virat Kohli (8.5/10)
Probably the most recognised cricketer in the world at the moment, Virat seems to have upped his fashion game by sporting a stylish black beard on his face. At no point has he allowed his beard to go unnoticed and he has always made sure to keep it groomed.
His fashion sense seems to have rubbed off on many of his teammates too, with the likes of KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Ashwin all sporting beards at different points post the captain’s initial change in style.
Hashim Amla (9/10)
Grown for religious purposes more than style, Amla’s beard has become his signature look without which he is unrecognisable. A devout Muslim and an extremely talented player, Amla is someone who can destroy any opponent on a good day.
He was once carelessly labelled a “Terrorist” by Dean Jones, a quip that lost the Australian his job. Amla is a very calm and composed person in general and is considered a genuine leader with immense talent. Seems like the beard exudes a lot of wisdom.
Martin Guptill (8/10)
The New Zealander is one of the best batsmen in his team and is a coveted member for many T20 franchisees worldwide. He is also the full-time owner of one of the slickest beards in the game of cricket today.
Guptill has had a beard for the longest time now and is rarely seen without it. He bears a strong resemblance to Johnny Bairstow thanks to the redness of his facial fuzz. Guptill will continue to play many innings for years to come and the beard doesn’t look like it’s going to leave anytime soon.
Anton Devcich (9/10)
Another New Zealander on the list is Anton Devcich, who bowls spin for the Black Caps. The bowler is known to have a big, hairy beard that can intimidate a lot of batsmen just by the look of it. Devcich is a regular for the Kiwis, having broken into the team a few years back.
His beard seems to be growing day by day and very rarely has he trimmed it or reduced its length. Devcich has on occasion, let it grow to massive proportions, making him look like a lumberjack.
Ravindra Jadeja (8/10)
India’s all-rounder is one cool rockstar of the game. He keeps changing his looks and hairdo, and remains in news for his style. He is a ‘royal rajput’ who takes a lot of pride in his beard and moustache. Over the years, Jaddu has kept his ‘bearded’ look up to the mark.
Chris Gayle (9.5/10)
The Big Jamaican is a superstar of the game. Gayle, who likes calling himself ‘universe boss’ has kept a very intense look in the last 6 years or so. From international cricket to IPL, the big man’s bearded look is always spot on.
Moeen Ali (10/10)
Last surely not the least, the English all-rounder has one of the most well-kept and stylish beards in the game. His fans like to call it ‘THE BEARD THAT IS FEARED’.
