“What’s in a name?” Many might agree or not agree to this popular quote, but the world of sports has witnessed innumerable unknown players hogging the limelight to register their names in books of history in golden letters. But quite a few cricketers have even changed their names during their career, due to various reasons. Take a look at 5 famous cricketers who changed their names during their playing days.
Bob Willis
One of the greatest pacers of all time, former English captain was named Robert George Willis when he was born. In 90 Tests, Willis claimed 325 dismissals and was the second-highest wicket-taker of the red-ball cricket at the time when he retired from cricket. A huge fan of American musician Bob Dylan, Willis adopted the name Bob as a tribute to his icon.
Asghar Afghan
Veteran Afghanistan cricketer Asghar Afghan was formerly known as Asghar Stanikzai. On August 2, 2018, he added Afghan to his name, however, he never explicitly clarified the reason but instead said that it was a proud decision for him.
Mohammad Yousuf
Former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Yousuf was only the 4th Christian to play for Pakistan until his conversion to Islam. Initally known as Yousuf Youhana, the ICC Test Cricketer of the Year 2007, he holds the record for scoring the highest number of runs in red-ball cricket in a single calender year.
Tillakaratne Dilshan
The inventor of Dil-scoop, Tillakaratne Dilshan is one of the greatest limited-overs openers for Sri Lanka. Known for his unconventionsl strokes and all-round capabilities on field, he started his career as Tuwan Mohammad Dilshan. Born to a Buddhist mother and Muslim father, Dilshan converted to Buddhism after the seperation of his parents.
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Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi
One of India’s most flamboyant captains, MAK Pataudi was the 9th Nawab of Pataudi. When he began playing crciket, Pataudi was called Nawab Paatudi Junior. After the 26th ammendment to the consititution in 1971, the Government of India caesed to recognize pricely titles. Thereafter, he played as Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi but was more popularly as Tiger Pataudi.
