5 Cricketers who chose country over their family

Cricket has been characterised as not just a sport but is more than a game, an emotion for many. For cricketers, it becomes a lifestyle, a constant pursuit of greatness that sometimes requires personal sacrifices. One of the most difficult decisions a cricketer can ever make is opting for national service over family or personal responsibility. These are five cricketers who made sacrifices, putting aside significant family experiences to play for their nation on the cricket pitch.

1. MS Dhoni (India) 

In February 2015, when MS Dhoni was leading India at the ICC Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, his wife, Sakshi, gave birth to their daughter, Ziva. The news reached Dhoni while he was on national duty. When questioned about missing the birth of his first child, Dhoni mentioned, "I am on national duty. Everything else can wait."

His choice was praised highly as a demonstration of dedication and concentration. India made it to the semi-finals of the competition, and Dhoni continued to be the calm leader he had always been.

2. Sachin Tendulkar (India) 

At the 1999 Cricket World Cup, Sachin Tendulkar faced a personal loss as his father, Ramesh Tendulkar, passed away. He travelled back to India to attend his father’s funeral. Nevertheless, following his feeling of responsibility to his country and team, he flew back to England only a few days later and played a match against Kenya.

In a remarkable show of emotional fortitude, Tendulkar scored a century in that game and dedicated it to his deceased father. The innings is one of the finest moments in World Cup history.

3. Virat Kohli (India) 

Earlier in 2006, Virat Kohli was just 18 years old and playing a Ranji Trophy game for Delhi when tragedy hit. His father died during the match. In spite of the huge emotional dent, Kohli decided to stay and play on.

He then scored 90 runs the following day, demonstrating early signs of his steely resolve and toughness. That innings proved to be the turning point in his career and an indication of his very strong commitment to cricket.

4. Moeen Ali (England) 

England all-rounder Moeen Ali had once hit the headlines when he decided to miss his brother's wedding to play a Test match for England against India in 2018. Even though the occasion was a major family event, Moeen gave priority to his national duty.

He got rewarded for his decision since he had a superb series, taking important wickets and scoring vital runs. It was another reflection of how seriously international cricketers take their duties.

5. Kane Williamson (New Zealand) 

In December 2021, Kane Williamson was in the news when he decided to remain with the New Zealand cricket team for a very important Test match instead of being present during the birth of his second child. While Williamson has been repeatedly lauded for his cool and composed nature, this move displayed just how much he values team objectives.

Williamson later explained he was in close contact with his family throughout, and the decision was jointly made. Nevertheless, it still served to highlight the stress such elite athletes at times have to cope with whilst attempting to juggle professional and family life.

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