On and off the field, cricketers have become India's most desirable men – outpacing actors, models, and influencers as the country's real style icons. Cricketers such as Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Abhishek Sharma have started to own the spotlight. From airport looks, brand endorsements and constant media presence, they have ensured that all eyes are on them. That perpetual visibility, paired with genuine talent and good looks, has made them feel embedded in a way traditional trendsetters never quite managed.
Every game is a platform for Hardik Pandya to showcase his new hair colour – from platinum blonde to a vibrant turquoise blue. Shubman Gill's streetwear has made the boy-next-door look feel curated – from a mix of oversized silhouettes to sharp tailoring. Van Cleef & Arpels, and a diamond tennis necklace – Abhishek Sharma wears fine jewellery like it's part of the kit. Virat Kohli's airport fits – sharp, minimal, never trying too hard – have made him cricket's answer to quiet luxury.
"These players have become fashion figures in their own right — not only are their outfits being copied, but the accessories too."
Instagram pages now regularly break down what cricketers are wearing, where their accessories can be found, and how much they cost. Their looks have been popularised by the sheer presence of social media – mainly their own personal Instagram pages and the infamous Indian paparazzi pages.
Ever since cricket became such a crucial part of India's cultural fabric, players have become idols – resulting in them being treated as gods, almost untouchable in the public eye. Other than being admired for their training routines and match performances, the lives they lead out of their career are also idolised. Social media has played a pivotal role in making them more accessible to the common man by getting fans a glimpse into their personal lives. As a result, fashion has become one of the many ways through which fans feel connected to their favourite cricketers.
Cricketers have stopped being just sportsmen – they've become the style icons India didn't know it needed. Not only are they breaking records on the field, they are setting the tone of fashion off it. Ladies and gentlemen, the style icons of the new generation.
