The Indian Cricket Team is known for its fitness, and while many believe non-vegetarian food is essential for athletes, some cricketers challenge this notion. Several players follow a vegetarian diet, breaking the stereotype and proving that plant-based nutrition can also support top-level performance. Here’s a look at some of the Indian Cricketers who are vegetarian.
Anil Kumble
Anil Kumble, India’s legendary leg-spinner, made history as the first Indian bowler to take ten wickets in a single Test inning against Pakistan on February 7, 1999. Kumble was later appointed Head Coach of the Indian cricket team in 2016. A known vegetarian, he was invited by Irfan Pathan to enjoy a vegetarian biryani feast.
Suresh Raina
Suresh Raina, one of India’s finest left-handed batsmen, has been the backbone of CSK’s batting lineup, always stepping up in crucial moments. Hailing from a Kashmiri Pandit family, Raina is a vegetarian but enjoys eating eggs. His versatility and contributions have made him a key player for both India and CSK.
Parthiv Patel
Parthiv Patel, an accomplished domestic cricketer, made his international debut at just 17, becoming the youngest wicketkeeper in Test cricket. He led Gujarat to their first-ever Ranji Trophy victory in 2016-17. Known for his disciplined lifestyle, Parthiv is a strict vegetarian and avoids eating onion and garlic.
Shikhar Dhawan
Shikhar Dhawan, affectionately called “Jatt Jee” by his teammates, is known for his lively personality. In 2018, Dhawan adopted a vegetarian lifestyle, citing how a non-vegetarian diet brought negative energy. Since then, he has embraced vegetarianism as a way to promote positivity and well-being.
Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin, a living legend of Indian cricket, has over 400 wickets to his name and is renowned for his mastery of the Carrom Ball. Known for his stamina in long Test spells, Ashwin follows a vegetarian diet to maintain his fitness and avoids consuming non-vegetarian food.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, known as the “Swing King,” is celebrated for his unplayable swing deliveries. To maintain his performance, he adheres to a strict diet plan, following a vegetarian lifestyle and focusing on fruits and vegetables to stay in top physical condition.
Ishant Sharma
Ishant Sharma, India’s key seam pacer in Test cricket, transitioned to a vegetarian diet after becoming concerned about his fitness. Previously a regular consumer of chicken, Ishant adopted a plant-based lifestyle to enhance his performance. He also participated in the Ban Meat Event in 2018 to promote vegetarianism.
Cheteshwar Pujara
Cheteshwar Pujara, a key figure in India’s Test team, is known for his patient and steady approach to batting. A strict lactovegetarian, Pujara follows a vegetarian diet and avoids excessive spices. His commitment to vegetarianism plays a role in maintaining his focus and stamina on the field.
Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma, one of India’s top openers, is known for his consistency and ability to deliver in big matches. A vegetarian who occasionally eats eggs, Rohit is also an active advocate for wildlife conservation. He has spearheaded efforts to raise awareness about the protection of the Great One-Horned Rhinos.
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, former captain of the Indian cricket team, is known for his exceptional fitness and serves as an idol for many young athletes. Although he was once a fan of “butter chicken,” Kohli adopted a vegetarian diet around 2018, influenced by his wife, Anushka Sharma. He now follows a vegetarian diet, though he still consumes eggs.