International Cricketers and Their Surprising Business Ventures

Many international cricketers have ventured into diverse businesses alongside their cricketing careers. Let’s explore some of the surprising business ventures of these athletes that you probably didn’t know about!

1. Chris Gayle – Beyond the Boundaries: Apart from being a cricket sensation, Chris Gayle owns a popular sports bar named Triple Three (333) and a restaurant in Jamaica. He also serves as the global spokesman for the alternative fashion brand Attitude.com. Additionally, Gayle has invested in technology companies like FlippAR and IONA, a gaming entertainment business. He is also the founder of ‘The Chris Gayle Academy,’ helping disadvantaged youngsters in Jamaica and the UK through sports involvement.
2. Gary Kirsten – Success in Coaching and Business: Gary Kirsten, renowned as a former Indian cricket team coach, is also a co-owner of Performance Zone. This company works with individuals and teams in sports and business to help them reach peak performance. Kirsten’s association with Cape Africa Tours and Gary Kirsten Travel and Tours has further diversified his business interests.
3. Brett Lee – From Cricket to Entertainment: Post his retirement from international cricket, Brett Lee joined the Channel Nine cricket commentary team. He also ventured into entertainment, collaborating with novelist Michael Panckridge on the Toby Jones novel series. Lee’s acting talents shone in the Indo-Australian film UnIndian. Beyond this, he is actively involved in philanthropy, supporting charities like the Salvation Army and Make a Wish, and founding Music, a charitable foundation in India.
4. Kevin Pietersen – Champion for Wildlife Conservation: Kevin Pietersen is a well-known advocate for endangered animal welfare and conservation. In 2018, he opened Umganu Lodge, a luxury resort near Kruger National Park, aimed at raising awareness for endangered animals in South Africa. He also founded Saving Our Rhinos Africa & India (SORAI), an Australian charity dedicated to rhino conservation.
5. Rashid Khan – Ambassador for Cricket and Philanthropy: Afghan leg-spinner Rashid Khan serves as a full-time ambassador for the Afghanistan Cricket Board, actively promoting cricket in his home country. Alongside his ambassadorial role, Rashid has been involved in philanthropy, supporting COVID-19 relief efforts in Afghanistan.
6. Dwayne Bravo – The All-Rounder in Music: West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo is not only a cricket star but also a professional singer with several popular songs to his credit. Music has become his creative outlet, allowing him to connect with others in unique ways.
7. Adam Hollioake – Transitioning to Mixed Martial Arts: Former England captain Adam Hollioake pursued a unique path after cricket by becoming a professional mixed martial artist. His discipline and focus in martial arts have earned him multiple victories in fights.
8. Brendon McCullum – From Cricket to Horse Racing: Brendon McCullum, the former New Zealand captain, has delved into horse racing, overseeing a stable of racehorses. He has a keen interest in breeding and training racehorses and has also made investments in the fitness industry.
9. Michael Vaughan – Cricket Commentator and More: After retiring from cricket, Michael Vaughan stepped into the media industry as a cricket commentator and analyst for various television networks. He has also engaged in philanthropy, supporting educational and health-related initiatives.
10. Kumar Sangakkara – Law, Cricket, and Philanthropy: Former Sri Lankan cricket captain Kumar Sangakkara is a notable lawyer and has served as the president of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). He actively supports humanitarian causes, including educational and healthcare efforts.

These cricketers have proven that they are not just skilled athletes but also successful entrepreneurs and advocates for various causes. Their diverse business ventures and contributions to society reflect their passion for making a difference both on and off the cricket field.