The Indian cricketer’s life has changed a lot after the IPL started. IPL 2023 combines both young and experienced players, with Faf du Plessis leading in the Orange Cap and Mohammed Siraj topping the wicket charts. Cricketers must prioritize physical care to maximize productivity in this two-month tournament with 14-18 matches and bi-weekly travel. Fitness, diet, and genetics impact the players’ appearances, and the IPL has extended many players’ careers by encouraging continued routines even when not playing.
In light of this, here are five Indian cricketers who have maintained a youthful appearance through their fitness and lifestyle habits.
Virat Kohli
Despite nearing 35 years of age, the former Indian captain, Virat Kohli, has shown no signs of slowing down. His fitness level is still at its peak, impressing fans with his stamina and dedication. Kohli continues to maintain his intensity and has yet to show any fatigue. Throughout his career, Kohli has remained mostly injury-free and is known for his high level of fitness. He could easily continue playing for another decade in terms of fitness alone. While he may have some gray hairs, a consequence of leading his nation through tough moments, Kohli appears far younger than his actual age.
MS Dhoni
The fitness of the former World Cup-winning captain is an inspiration to many, from his daily consumption of liters of milk to his consistent injury-free state, despite nearing 42 years of age. Dhoni is excelling in the IPL 2023 as both a finisher and wicket-keeper, despite carrying a knee niggle throughout the tournament. Though time has passed, Dhoni still appears youthful, and sharp as ever and has not lost his incredible ability to hit sixes.
Manish Pandey
Many members of the 2008 U-19 World Cup-winning team have retired, but Manish Pandey continues to perform strongly. Although his recent batting returns have been below par, he remains a skilled fielder and maintains excellent fitness. Even in his prime, Pandey excelled in yo-yo tests, and at 33 years old, he still appears youthful and agile, with the speed of a young player and a noticeable spring in his step.
Hardik Pandya
Since the 2021 T20 World Cup, the all-rounder has made significant progress, and as a seam bowling all-rounder, Pandya is well aware of the importance of maintaining top-level fitness. With an IPL title as captain and steady progress on the national level, Pandya has been fortunate to remain injury-free. Despite being a family man with a child, it’s hard to believe that he will soon turn 30, as it seems like only yesterday when he burst onto the cricket scene as a bold and powerful young player, impressively displaying his style.
KL Rahul
KL Rahul’s recent marriage to Athiya Shetty was a reminder that he has reached a new stage in his life, despite his youthful appearance. The wicket-keeper batter recently celebrated his 31st birthday on April 18, 2023, and has evolved into an all-format player for India, becoming a consistent run-scorer in the IPL over the last few seasons. Despite the passing years, Rahul has aged gracefully and maintained his performance levels.
