Six famous cricketers are known for their distinctive on-field mannerisms. These include pre-delivery rituals, unique gestures, and repetitive actions, which became signature traits, making them memorable. Their habits, whether adjusting equipment or performing quirky actions, added personality and flair to their playing styles, captivating fans.
1. MS Dhoni and his strapping of the gloves:
MS Dhoni is celebrated as one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket history. For true fans, his on-field habits have become iconic over the years.
One notable routine is Dhoni’s entry onto the field—he always steps with his right leg first, followed by a glance over his left shoulder toward the sky. Additionally, his signature habit involves adjusting his gloves. After hitting a six or four, he walks down the pitch with his bat tucked under his arm, removes the straps of both gloves, and then carefully re-straps them. These habits have become synonymous with Dhoni’s composed and methodical approach to the game.
2. Virat Kohli and his trademark bat twirl:
One of his most iconic on-field habits is his unique pre-delivery routine. After nearly every delivery, Kohli raises his bat toward the slip fielders and then twirls it before returning to his stance. This gesture has become a signature part of his batting technique, showcasing his focus and rhythm during the game.
3. Steve Smith’s unique mannerisms:
Steve Smith, a modern-day cricket legend, is renowned for his unique on-field mannerisms. Upon walking to the crease, he lifts both legs, starting with the left, before settling into his stride. As the bowler charges in, Smith performs a series of rapid rituals: he taps his bat twice, swings it up and down, ducks around, and shuffles across—an intricate routine he follows before every ball.
This behavior became so iconic that during Australia’s 2017 tour of India, India’s Test specialist Ishant Sharma, frustrated by Smith’s quirks, attempted to mock him by pulling faces. This moment quickly went viral, turning into a popular meme trend.
4. Virender Sehwag’s red handkerchief:
Virender Sehwag, one of India’s most explosive cricketers, was known for his distinctive on-field habits. A red-colored handkerchief was always visible in his left pocket, becoming a signature part of his appearance. Additionally, like many cricketers, Sehwag had a routine of stepping onto the field with his right leg first. While batting, Sehwag was often seen singing or whistling, adding a unique and carefree touch to his aggressive style. These quirky habits became part of Sehwag’s legendary persona, making him a fan favorite.
5. Lasith Malinga’s good-luck kiss:
Lasith Malinga, regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in limited-overs cricket, is known for his unique and distinctive bowling action. His slingy, side-arm delivery made him one of the most effective bowlers in the format. Another notable habit of Malinga is his ritual of kissing the ball before starting his run-up. This quirky gesture became one of his trademarks, adding to his mystique and making him an even more memorable figure in cricket history.
6. Sachin Tendulkar and his many habits:
Sachin Tendulkar, widely regarded as the greatest cricketer of all time, had a number of iconic on-field habits. One of his signature actions was slightly ducking to adjust his cricket gear whenever he stepped onto the field, a gesture that became widely admired by fans, especially youngsters. Additionally, Tendulkar had a habit of walking down the track and tapping the area of the pitch where the ball was bowled. This ritual, done before facing each delivery, added a personal touch to his composed and focused approach to batting.
