Religion and faith play a very personal role in all of our lives, and even the biggest sports stars are included in that. In the world of cricket, we see many players go through what may be called a spiritual awakening, which in turn brings about peace, identity and purpose for them. Here is an in-depth look at ten that to date have changed or redefined their religious practices. Also, we’ll look at their other interests and hobbies away from the pitch.
- Yousuf Youhana (Also known as Mohammad Yousuf), Pakistan.
Once a Devout Christian, in 2005 at the turn of the decade, Yousuf Youhana converted to Islam, which made world news. He took on the name Mohammad Yousuf, which he adopted into his play and personal life. His wife is the one who inspired his conversion and was there for him as he transitioned into his new faith. After he came over to Islam, he became a more disciplined and put-together person in the field and in life. Today, he is very much into teaching young cricketers, which is a passion of his, and he also reads a great deal of religious material and recites the Quran.
- Tillakaratne Mohammad Dilshan, Sri Lanka.
Born into a Muslim family as Tuwan Mohammad Dilshan, the Sri Lankan opener later adopted Buddhism, which he found via his own spiritual journey. Known for his aggressive approach to batting and which we also saw in his “Dilscoop” shot, was a part of his independent thinking. Also, on the field, you didn’t know what to expect from him, but off the field, he was a very travelled man, a guitar player and a philanthropist, which includes his work in sports programs for underprivileged kids.
- Wayne Parnell (also known as Waleed Parnell), South Africa.
Wayne Parnell, the left-arm pacer, in 2011 joined the Islamic faith and took the name Waleed. His path into the faith was in large part due to Muslim teammates Hashim Amla and Imran Tahir. Parnell said that through Islam, he found peace and focus, which in turn helped him balance his professional and personal life. Off the field, he is into music production, does work for animal rights issues and is very much into his family.
- Imran Tahir RSA.
Though at birth into a Muslim family, Imran Tahir’s move from Pakistan to South Africa saw his turn to his faith. His dedicated approach to worship helped him in the cultural and career changes that came his way. Known for his large-scale run celebrations, which became iconic, Tahir practices meditation and mindfulness, which in turn keeps him at peace in high-stress situations. Also into cycling, trying out local foods, and spending time with his wife and son is what he does for fun.
- Tony G, England.
In the ‘70s, the former England captain, who was known for his charisma, gave up his religion to join Islam after he married a woman of the Muslim faith. Greig did not at any point during his cricket career talk about his conversion, which he kept very private. Also, beyond his time on the cricket field, Greig was a great golfer, a cricket commentator and author, who, beyond the years of play, also contributed a great deal to the sport.
- Suraj Randiv (Also known as Mohammad Rizlan) Sri Lanka/Qatar.
Born into the world as Suraj Randiv in Sri Lanka, the spin bowler at a young age went to live in Qatar, which also saw him adopt the faith of Islam and take on the name Mohammad Rizlan. That was a break point in terms of what was professional for him and spiritual. As a member of Qatar’s national team now, Randiv says it is his faith that is the base of his restructured confidence. Also into fitness and spending time with his kids.
- Monty Panesar, England.
Monty Panesar, who grew up in a Sikh home, is known for his spiritual curiosity, which extends to many religions. Though he hasn’t fully converted, he does study many faiths out of interest. He does, however, put forth what he has learned from them. Also, a left-arm spinner, he is into yoga, psychology and does motivational talks on sports and mental health.
- Mahmudullah from Bangladesh.
Though a strict conversion is not what we see in Mahmud’s case, he did experience a great spiritual renewal after getting married. Known for his humility and in his steady approach to things, upon marriage, he took to living out faith-based principles in his day-to-day doings. Mahmud’s pleasures include fishing, cooking up a storm in the kitchen with Bangladeshi cuisine, and having quiet evenings.
- Mohammad Kaif, India.
The former cricketer has turned to his very inspiring faith. Although he didn’t convert religions, he did increase his spiritual practice, which in turn has become a role model for achieving that balance between tradition and modern life. Kaif is into mentoring young athletes, following football, and is also very into his family.
- Mushahid Ahmed, Pakistan.
Mus, at the top of his game when he retired did turned to a more spiritual path. He also does lots of motivational talks about the role of faith and discipline in sports. What also stands out is that through his in-depth study of religion, Mushtaq has become a respected figure outside of cricket. Also that he was into teaching spin bowling, writing, and attending community events.
Conclusion
These cricketers show us that success is not limited to what the scorecard says, it also includes personal peace, growth and purpose. What they go through in their spiritual journeys shows that it is possible to have faith and cricket at the same time, which in turn shapes not only great athletes but also very humble human beings. Through meditation, prayer or acts of charity, these stars also continue to inspire millions beyond the game.
