Whether we talk about the routine life of a common human or a sports personality, fitness is the most pivotal aspect of any human’s life. When we talk about cricket, the importance of being more fit becomes crucial to match the highly competitive game demands of modern times.
The importance of fitness has witnessed a stunning inclination since the transition and rising influence of limited-format cricket, which demands high pace and precision from the players.
Various tests, like the highly noticed yo-yo test, have been constantly used and considered a relying parameter to test players’ agility across various sports. However, it is not just the physical ability that determines your robustness. A good diet, mental health, and a balanced lifestyle are some of the significant components that frame a cricketer’s fitness. Considering the current cricketing scene, Indian cricketing genius Virat Kohli stands unparalleled above all when it comes to fitness. Delving deeper, in this blog, we will learn about some of the fittest cricketers in the world and what factors make them so.
Top 6 fittest cricketers of the World: Turning tide with endurance and prowess
Virat Kohli
Regarded as one of the most accomplished cricketers of all time, India’s stalwart Virat Kohli is often acclaimed as the fittest cricketer of the world. It would be not wrong to consider that it’s the former Indian captain, who has raised the magnitude of fitness in modern-day cricket.
The 36-year-old is aging like a fine wine, credit to his strict steamed and boiled food diet which majorly consists of dal (lentils). He has a strict know for spicy foods or curries and a big percentage of his food remains boiled or steamed. However, being a Punjabi he does not miss out on having the authentic aromas of Rajma and Lobiya (black-eyed pea).
Virat’s remarkable cricket stats speak big words about his caliber. A fact that can not be ignored is that the right-handed batter’s above-the-bench fitness level has played a crucial role in his distinguished career.
While Kohli has already bid farewell to T20 cricket, a mirroring angle is his fitness level. The level of his agility will be a determining factor framing his probable presence in the Indian side for the forthcoming ODI World Cup, which will take place in 2027.
Ben Stokes
One of the most prolific all-rounders and England’s Test captain Ben Stokes, is another name on this prestigious list. Though the 33-year-old has constantly struggled with injuries in recent years, his exceptional endurance level is highly acknowledged amongst the cricket fraternity.
The New Zealand-born relies on intense gym sessions complimented with a good span of ground practice in order to keep himself geared up for his gaming assignments. His diet consists of poached eggs, chicken, and sweet potato fries, which act as fuel.
Mitchell Starc
Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc is undeniably a force to reckon with for batters around the globe. The left-arm speedster is by far one of the fittest cricketers in the world. His sheer ability to constantly ball high-paced deliveries with impeccable swing makes him a standout cricketer in the modern era.
Still rocking the charts despite being 34 years of age is enough to justify his incredible fitness level. His constant presence in the Australian team across multiple formats speaks loudly on how much the left-armer weighs in on keeping himself robust.
It is worth noting that the New South Wales-based cricketer keeps more focused on isometric leg training alongside good recovery sessions that involve ice baths.
Hardik Pandya
Another Indian on the list, Hardik Pandya, has been the driving force in the Indian cricket team. Be it sparking flare with his hitting prowess or taking key wickets when his team needs it the most, the dynamic all-rounder has always emerged as the rescue man for his side.
Apart from his cricketing skills, the 31-year-old’s resounding fitness level is evident in his eye-grabbing athleticism.
Starting his day with an hour-long yoga and meditation session, the Gujarat-based cricketer is often spotted doing intense workout sessions that include cardio and powerlifting.
The crackerjack relies on a balanced diet, beginning with fruits in the breakfast to fuel his nutritional needs. His lean physique and tremendous muscle power give him a big edge in clearing boundaries with intense power, no matter how big the ground is.
Jasprit Bumrah
The Indian pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah is another auspicious addition to this elite chart of the fittest cricketers. Be it red-ball or white-ball cricket, Bumrah has been an integral part of the Men in Blue’s bowling line-up, leading them upfront with his fiery deliveries. His ability to bowl constant yorkers with a whopping pace, complimented by his intriguing action, demands a high level of fitness to stay in shape.
Stretching and yoga sessions are a crucial part of the 31-year-old’s workout plan, which helps him avoid injuries. Additionally, he relies on strict meals that are full of protein, complex carbs, and a balanced amount of hydrating foods when it comes to diet.
It is worth noting that Bumrah strictly avoids consuming alcohol and processed foods, which could bring a hindrance to his daily fitness routine.
Pat Cummins
Australia skipper Pat Cummins has added himself to the list of Australian cricketing greats. The 31-year-old has already etched his name in the annals of history by leading his nation to the win ODI World Cup 2023.
Often hailed for his wicket-taking skills and balanced batting style, the Sydney-born cricketer follows a highly balanced workout routine to match the strict demands of modern-day cricket.
Adding more, Cummins relies on a proper warm-up before beginning any physical activity to bring out the peak performance in every task.
Mentioning his diet, the Australian athlete prioritizes consuming healthy food like lean meats, whole grains, veggies, and fruits.
Conclusion
Fitness is a crucial aspect in the decorated career of these highly fit cricketers. While there have been many downs in the careers of these players, they have always made a larger comeback riding high on the pillars of their fighting spirit, strong mindset, and strong physique. As their contribution to cricket remains incredible, their resounding fitness standards set high benchmarks for the aspiring and next-generation athletes.
