What Do Cricketers Do After Retirement?

Cricket is a physically demanding sport. Batsmen spend hours wielding the willow under the scorching sun, while bowlers tirelessly hurl deliveries, putting immense strain on their bodies.

So, it’s no surprise that even the most passionate cricketers eventually call it quits. Explore their new careers – coaching, commentary, business ventures, and more!? What do these legendary players do after hanging up their boots?

Why Do Cricketers Retire?

There are two main reasons why cricketers decide to retire:

• Age and Physical Limitations: Cricket involves explosive movements, powerful strokes, and long hours on the field. Over time, these demands take a toll. Injuries like stress fractures, muscle tears, and chronic back pain become common. At a certain point, the body simply can’t keep up with the rigors of the game.
• Performance Decline: Cricket is a game of skill and fitness. As players age, their reflexes slow down, reaction times increase, and their overall fitness might dip. This can lead to a decline in performance, prompting some to step away from the game when they feel they can no longer compete at the highest level.

Average Retirement Age In Cricket- In-depth Study

We analyzed a sample of 30 of the greatest cricketers of all time, as featured on BBC UK. You can find the list of cricketers here [Link]. We then used ESPN Cricinfo to gather each player’s profile and determine their last appearance in an official cricket match. We categorized them into the following age ranges:

• Early Retirement (Under 35)
• Mid-Career Retirement (35-40)
• Late Career Retirement (Over 40)

The final result and Bar chart representation 

Final Result:

• Early Retirement (Under 35): 6 players (14.3%)
• Mid-Career Retirement (35-40): 18 players (64.3%)
• Late Career Retirement (Over 40): 6 players (21.4%)

Explanation of Bar chart:

As the Bar chart suggests most international cricket players retire in mid-career range between 35-40 years. There are examples like Sachin Tendulkar and Imran Khan who retired after the age of 40 years.

Life After Cricket: A New Innings

Retirement from cricket doesn’t have to mean the end of a fulfilling career. Many former players find exciting new opportunities: Here is a list of some famous players.

Cricketers: Post-Playing Career Paths

Note:

• This table only features a small selection of cricketers who have pursued these paths after retirement.
• There are many other examples, including cricketers who have combined these roles or ventured into other areas entirely.

A. Staying Connected to the Game

• Coaching: With their wealth of experience, retired cricketers are highly sought-after as coaches. They can guide national teams, mentor young players in franchise leagues, or even run their own cricket academies. For example, Rahul Dravid, the former Indian captain, is now the Head Coach of the Indian National Cricket Team, sharing his knowledge and strategies with the next generation.

• Commentary: Cricketers with a sharp mind and a knack for explaining the game excel in commentary careers. They provide expert analysis on TV and radio broadcasts, keeping fans engaged and offering insights into the game’s finer points. The likes of Harsha Bhogle and Sunil Gavaskar have become synonymous with cricket commentary in India.
• Administration: Retired players can leverage their experience and leadership skills by taking on administrative roles within cricket boards or academies. They can contribute to policy decisions, promote the sport at the grassroots level, and help shape the future of cricket.

B. Venturing into New Fields

While cricket remains a passion, some players choose to explore entirely new avenues after retirement: Here is a list of some famous players:

Cricketers: Post-Playing Career Paths

• Business Ventures: Many cricketers leverage their fame and brand recognition to launch successful business ventures. These can range from opening restaurants and sports academies to investing in startups. For instance, Sachin Tendulkar, the cricketing legend, co-owns the Indian Premier League team Mumbai Indians.
• Motivational Speaking: Cricketers who have overcome challenges and achieved greatness have inspiring stories to tell. They can become motivational speakers, sharing their experiences and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.
• Philanthropy: Many retired cricketers give back to society through philanthropic work. They can support causes they care about, set up foundations, or raise awareness for important issues.

Pie Chart Breakdown of Post-Retirement Career Paths of Cricketers

This  pie chart showing the percentage of cricketers who pursue different post-retirement careers. Options could include:

• Coaching
• Commentary
• Administration
• Business Ventures
• Philanthropy

Final Result

• Coaching (35%)
• Commentary (30%)
• Administration (5%)
• Business Ventures (25%)
• Philanthropy (5%)

Data Source: Zee Zest

Financial Security: The Reward for Hard Work

Cricketers who have planned well for their retirement can enjoy financial security. Here’s how they achieve this:

• Contracts and Endorsements: During their playing careers, cricketers earn salaries through contracts with their teams and national boards. Additionally, many secure lucrative endorsement deals with major brands. Smart financial planning and investing these earnings can create a solid financial base for retirement.
• Post-retirement Income Streams: Some cricket boards offer benefit programs to retired players. These can include pensions, health insurance, and other financial benefits.

Case Study: MS Dhoni (The Captain Cool Example)

MS Dhoni, the former Indian captain, is a prime example of a cricketer who has transitioned smoothly into retirement. While Dhoni hasn’t officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, he has stepped back from international cricket.

He continues to play in the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL), where his experience and leadership are valuable assets. Dhoni has also invested in various business ventures, including a clothing line and a sports management company.

This diversification ensures a steady flow of income after his playing days are over. (It’s important to note that details of Dhoni’s exact salary and investments.

MS Dhoni is a savvy businessman with a diverse portfolio beyond cricket. Here’s a breakdown of some of his known ventures:

• Dhoni Entertainment Pvt Ltd: His own film production company.
• Chennaiyin FC: Co-owner of this Indian Super League (ISL) football team.
• Seven: Dhoni isn’t just a brand ambassador, but also has a stake in this footwear brand.
• SportsFit: A company under the Dhoni brand dealing in sportswear and fitness equipment.
• Rhiti Group: Dhoni is a shareholder in this sports management company.
• Other ventures: There have been reports of Dhoni’s involvement in organic farming and investments in startups like Khatabook (a digital accounting app) and 7InkBrews (a food and beverage company).

Success Stories: From the Pitch to New Heights

Cricketers inspire us with their on-field heroics, but their journeys don’t end with the final wicket. Here are some inspiring stories of retired cricketers who have thrived in their new careers outside of cricket:

• Adam Gilchrist (Australia): After a stellar career behind the stumps, Adam Gilchrist transitioned seamlessly into commentary. His infectious enthusiasm and insightful analysis have made him a fan favorite in the commentary box. He’s also become a successful businessman, co-owning a brewery and investing in various ventures.
• Shane Warne (Australia): The “Spin King” wasn’t just a magician with the ball. Post-retirement, Shane Warne has become a sought-after commentator, known for his outspoken personality and sharp cricketing mind. He’s also dabbled in coaching and even participated in various reality shows, keeping his name relevant and his brand strong.
• Sourav Ganguly (India): Sourav Ganguly, fondly known as “Dada,” was a true leader on the field. He carried that leadership quality into his post-cricket career, becoming the President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Under his guidance, Indian cricket has seen significant growth and commercial success.
• VVS Laxman (India): The “Very Very Special” Laxman is another example of a cricketer excelling beyond the field. He currently mentors young talent at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in India, sharing his vast cricketing knowledge and experience with the next generation.
• Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka): Kumar Sangakkara wasn’t just a prolific scorer, he’s also a man of immense intellect. Post-retirement, he has become a prominent voice for social justice and player welfare, working with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and advocating for positive change in the sport.

These are just a few examples. Many other retired cricketers have found success in diverse fields like:

• Business: Anil Kumble (India) – co-owns a sports technology company.
• Coaching: Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – Head Coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL.
• Philanthropy: Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – actively supports underprivileged children’s education.

These success stories demonstrate the vast potential for cricketers beyond the game. With dedication and planning, a career in cricket can be a springboard for a fulfilling and successful life, both on and off the field.

Q&A: Cricketers and Retirement

Do cricketers still get paid after retirement in a traditional salary sense?

No. Their playing contracts end with retirement. However, there are ways retired cricketers can generate income:

• Investments and endorsements: Many successful cricketers invest their earnings during their playing career. Additionally, their fame can lead to lucrative endorsement deals after retirement.
• Coaching and commentary: Their experience is valuable. Coaching roles with teams, academies, or commentary positions can provide income.
• Business ventures: Some cricketers use their name recognition and business acumen to launch successful ventures.

What do cricket players do after retirement?

It depends on the individual! Here are some common paths:

• Continue in cricket: Coaching, commentary, administration roles within the sport.
• Business ventures: Launching their own businesses or investing in existing ones.
• Philanthropy: Giving back to society through charitable work.
• Relaxation and family time: Finally having time for hobbies and loved ones after a demanding career.

What is the source of income for cricketers after retirement?

As mentioned above, income can come from endorsements, coaching, business ventures, or prior investments.

What is Dhoni doing after retirement?

MS Dhoni hasn’t officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, but he hasn’t played for the Indian national team since 2019. He has been involved with the Chennai Super Kings franchise in the IPL and might continue in some capacity. There have also been rumors of business ventures.

At what age do cricketers retire?

There’s no set age. It depends on physical fitness, form, and personal decisions. Some retire in their early 30s, while others play into their 40s.

What is the salary of MS Dhoni per month after retirement?

Dhoni doesn’t receive a monthly salary after retirement. Any income he generates would come from the sources mentioned earlier.

How do cricketers get paid after retirement?

They don’t get a traditional salary. They rely on income generated through endorsements, coaching, business ventures, or investments.

Did Dhoni announce his retirement?

MS Dhoni hasn’t made a formal announcement regarding retirement from all forms of cricket. He continue playing in the IPL.

Why do cricketers retire at 40?

It’s not a strict rule, but a combination of factors can influence retirement around 40:

• Physical demands: Cricket is physically taxing, and reflexes and stamina can decline with age.
• Competition: Younger players with fresh talent emerge.
• Personal goals: Some players may have achieved their cricketing ambitions and want to pursue other interests.

Poll: What Career Path is Most Interesting for Retired Cricketers?

Thanks for joining the discussion! Cricketers dedicate their lives to the sport, but eventually retirement beckons. What path do you think is most interesting for them to pursue after hanging up their pads?

Vote Now!

• Coaching and Mentoring: Sharing their knowledge and experience with the next generation.
• Business Ventures: Using their name recognition and business acumen to launch new ventures.
• Commentary and Broadcasting: Bringing their insights to cricket broadcasts.
• Philanthropy and Social Impact: Giving back to society through charitable work.
• Other (Write-in your suggestion in the comments!)

Let your voice be heard! Share your thoughts in the comments below on why you chose your option and what other exciting paths retired cricketers could explore.

Cricket Retirement Quiz: Test Your Knowledge!

Are you a cricket fanatic who knows the legends beyond their playing days? This quiz will test your knowledge about the post-retirement careers of some famous cricketers. Get ready for a fun challenge!

Instructions:

• Read each question carefully.
• Select the best answer for each question.
• No peeking at the answers below!

Questions:

1. Which former Australian wicketkeeper and batsman is known for his infectious enthusiasm and insightful commentary?

a) Ricky Ponting

b) Adam Gilchrist (Correct Answer)

c) Glenn McGrath

d) Shane Warne

2. This legendary Indian captain was the President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

a) Sachin Tendulkar

b) Sourav Ganguly

c) Rahul Dravid

d) Virat Kohli

3. Who among these cricketers is known as a business savvy?

a) Yuvraj Singh

b) Virat Kohli

c) Sachin Tendulkar

d) MS Dhoni

4. This Sri Lankan cricketer is a prominent voice for social justice and player welfare, working with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).

a) Mahela Jayawardene

b) Kumar Sangakkara

c) Tillakaratne Dilshan

d) Lasith Malinga

5. Which former fast bowler is now a sought-after commentator known for his outspoken personality and sharp cricketing mind?

a) Brett Lee

b) Glenn McGrath

c) Shane Warne

d) Mitchell Starc

Bonus Question:

What is the most common reason cricketers decide to retire?

 a) Injuries

 b) Age and Physical Limitations (**Correct Answer**)

 c) Loss of Form

 d) All of the Above

Ready to check your answers? Scroll down to see the answer key!

Answer Key:

1. b) Adam Gilchrist
2. b) Sourav Ganguly
3. d) MS Dhoni
4. b) Kumar Sangakkara
5. c) Shane Warne

Bonus Question: d) All of the Above

Grading:

5 out of 5: You’re a true cricket aficionado! 3-4 out of 5: Not bad! Keep following the sport and these legends’ post-playing careers. 1-2 out of 5: Time to brush up on your cricket knowledge. This quiz can be a great starting point!

James Paul

James Paul is a former first-class cricketer and passionate cricket analyst. His decades of experience on the field and his love for the game shape his insights into the strategies and personalities that define world-class cricket.