Cricketers Who Received the Khel Ratna Award: The Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting honour, recognizes exceptional performance by athletes across various disciplines. Established in 1991-92, it aims to promote sports and encourage athletes in their pursuit of excellence. Over the years, several cricketers have been honoured with this prestigious award, underscoring cricket’s immense impact on Indian sports culture. Here’s a look at some of the most notable cricketers who have received the Khel Ratna Award.

1. Kapil Dev (1991-92)

The first cricketer to receive the Khel Ratna Award was none other than Kapil Dev, the legendary Indian all-rounder and captain of the 1983 World Cup-winning team. His leadership, remarkable skills, and contributions to Indian cricket are unparalleled. Kapil’s ability to inspire his teammates and his pivotal role in bringing cricket to the forefront of Indian sports earned him this prestigious recognition.

2. Sachin Tendulkar (1997-98)

Often hailed as the “God of Cricket,” Sachin Tendulkar is a name synonymous with cricket in India. He received the Khel Ratna Award in 1997-98 after an illustrious career that included numerous records, such as being the highest run-scorer in international cricket. Tendulkar’s dedication, perseverance, and extraordinary talent have inspired countless aspiring cricketers, making him a fitting recipient of the award.

3. Mahendra Singh Dhoni (2007-08)

MS Dhoni, known for his calm demeanour and exceptional leadership, was awarded the Khel Ratna in 2007-08. Under his captaincy, India won the ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011, among other accolades. Dhoni’s innovative captaincy and finishing skills have left an indelible mark on the game, making him one of the most revered figures in cricket history.

4. Virat Kohli (2017-18)

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Indian cricket, Virat Kohli was honored with the Khel Ratna Award in 2017-18. Kohli’s aggressive batting style, remarkable consistency, and ability to chase down targets have made him a global cricketing icon. His work ethic and passion for the game continue to motivate the next generation of cricketers.

5. Rohit Sharma (2020-21)

Rohit Sharma received the Khel Ratna Award for his exceptional performance in limited-overs cricket, particularly his record-breaking innings and consistent run-scoring ability. As the captain of the Indian cricket team, Rohit has demonstrated his leadership skills while achieving significant milestones, including multiple double centuries in ODIs. His journey from being a struggling cricketer to a key player reflects his determination and talent.

6. Jasprit Bumrah (2020-21)

Jasprit Bumrah, one of the leading fast bowlers in the world, also received the Khel Ratna Award in the same year as Rohit Sharma. Known for his unique bowling action and ability to bowl yorkers at will, Bumrah has played a crucial role in various formats of the game. His performances in crucial matches, particularly in the ICC tournaments, have made him an indispensable part of the Indian bowling attack.

The Khel Ratna Award is a testament to the extraordinary achievements of cricketers who have not only excelled in their sport but have also inspired millions across the country. Each of the recipients has made significant contributions to Indian cricket and has played a vital role in popularising the sport. Their dedication, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence have set benchmarks for future generations of cricketers. As cricket continues to evolve, these players will forever be remembered as icons who brought glory to Indian sports on the global stage.