Cricket News

5 Cricketers who Participated in Big Boss

The Indian reality show Bigg Boss, known for its drama, competition, and confined house, has seen celebrities from all walks of life step through its doors. While actors, singers, and models are common sights, a few cricketers have also dared to trade their bats and balls for the Bigg Boss experience.

Here’s a look at five such cricketers who took the reality TV plunge. These five cricketers, each with their unique personalities and cricketing journeys, brought a different flavour to Bigg Boss. Their experiences highlight the diverse reasons celebrities choose to participate in reality shows: some seeking a career boost, others exploring new opportunities, and some trying to connect with audiences beyond their established personas.

Salil Ankola (Season 1)

This former Indian fast bowler, with just one Test and 20 ODIs to his name, was one of the first contestants in Bigg Boss history. He entered the show in 2006 but had to leave mid-season due to contractual obligations with Balaji Telefilms. Although his stay was short, Ankola’s participation marked the beginning of a trend of cricketers seeking new platforms beyond the field.

Vinod Kambli (Season 3)

The once-prolific batsman, known for his explosive partnerships with Sachin Tendulkar, entered Bigg Boss as a wild card contestant in 2009. His short stint was marked by emotional outbursts and controversies, leading to his eviction after just 15 days. Despite the drama, Kambli’s appearance highlighted the emotional challenges retired athletes can face and ignited discussions about mental health in sports.

Navjot Singh Sidhu (Season 6)

This legendary cricketer-turned-commentator brought his wit and wisdom to Bigg Boss in 2012. Sidhu’s political commitments forced him to leave the show mid-season, but his time there was filled with insightful observations, witty remarks, and entertaining interactions with other contestants. He proved that the cricketing mind could adapt to the Bigg Boss game, albeit for a limited time.

Andrew Symonds (Season 5)

The Australian all-rounder was a wild card entry in 2011, adding an international flavor to the show. Symonds‘ carefree attitude and competitive spirit made him a fan favorite. While his stay was short (two weeks), he left a lasting impression with his easygoing charm and willingness to participate in tasks. His appearance showed that even international cricket stars were open to exploring new avenues beyond the sport. During his stay in the house, he had plenty of conversations with actresses Sunny Leone and Juhi Parmar.

S Sreesanth (Season 12)

This controversial fast bowler, known for his fiery persona on the field, entered Bigg Boss in 2018, seeking to rebuild his image after a spot-fixing ban. Sreesanth‘s journey was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by arguments, tears, and moments of vulnerability. He made it to the finale but ultimately finished as the runner-up. However, his run saw him earn a lot of praise from the public. His participation sparked debates about second chances and the complexities of athlete rehabilitation.