Several Indian cricketers are famously identified by their surnames rather than first names. Their surnames have become iconic, reflecting their unique identities and contributions to the sport. This tradition highlights the deep connection between these players and their fans, who affectionately refer to them by these memorable monikers.
MS Dhoni
Lastly, former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is widely recognized by his surname. Fans across India and the world fondly call him Dhoni, a name that has become synonymous with his legendary cricketing career and immense popularity.
Suresh Raina
Suresh Raina, once a crucial member of India’s limited-overs squad, is now working hard to regain his place. Known primarily by his surname, fans across India seldom call him Suresh. The name Raina resonates deeply with cricket enthusiasts, symbolizing his contributions to the game and his enduring popularity.
Mohammed Shami
Shami, a remarkable fast bowler and one of India’s quickest, is celebrated for his skill, pace, and consistency. Like the other cricketers highlighted, fans across the country primarily refer to him by his surname. The name Shami has become synonymous with excellence in Indian cricket and unwavering fan admiration.
Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah is among the elite league of Indian cricketers and one of the finest fast bowlers in limited-overs cricket today. Fans in India and worldwide rarely use his first name, Jasprit; instead, they affectionately call him Bumrah, a name synonymous with precision and excellence.
Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja, a crucial figure in Indian cricket, is primarily known by his surname. Fans across the world affectionately call him Jadeja or Jaddu, with only a few using his first name, Ravindra. Renowned for his all-round abilities, he remains one of the most valuable players in all three formats of the game.
Cheteshwar Pujara
Cheteshwar Pujara, one of India’s finest Test batsmen, is often considered the backbone of India’s batting lineup in Test cricket. Known for his traditional approach, Pujara prioritizes Test cricket over limited-overs formats and money. Like other cricketers, fans call him simply “Pujara,” not Cheteshwar, highlighting his strong identity.
Shanthakumaran Sreesanth
“In the air, Sreesanth takes it.” This iconic moment, when Sreesanth caught the winning ball in the 2007 World T20 final, remains unforgettable for Indian cricket fans. Shanthakumaran Sreesanth, like many other cricketers, is widely known by his surname, with fans calling him simply “Sreesanth.”
Vangipurapu Venkata Sai Laxman (VVS Laxman)
Vangipurapu Venkata Sai Laxman, one of the finest Test batsmen in Indian cricket history, is widely recognized as VVS Laxman. Fans in India often simply call him “Laxman,” while the special full form of VVS, “Very Very Special,” reflects his exceptional contributions to the game.
Robin Uthappa
Robin Uthappa, known for his aggressive middle-order batting in limited-overs cricket, has a large fan base in India. Fans admire his hard-hitting and flamboyant style, but instead of calling him by his first name, Robin, they prefer to address him simply as “Uthappa.”