In the glamorous worlds of Indian cricket and Bollywood, the rumours of romantic entanglements have never failed to captivate fans and the media alike. The alleged relationships between cricketing icons and stunning Bollywood actresses have been a source of endless speculation and fascination. However, it is essential to note that none of these rumoured relationships have been officially confirmed by the cricketers or the actors involved. In this article, we explore the intriguing world of rumoured romances involving ten of India's most celebrated cricket stars, shedding light on the whispered tales of love, the glare of the spotlight, and the enigma that shrouds these supposed connections.
One of the most prolific run-scorers in Indian cricket, Rohit Sharma, was rumoured to have been in a relationship with British model turned-actress, Sofia Hayat. According to speculation, their paths crossed in a London club, introduced by a mutual friend. Their frequent public appearances together fueled the rumours. However, neither Rohit Sharma nor Sofia Hayat officially confirmed the relationship. Sofia Hayat later revealed details about their rumoured connection in a book she authored, but it remained unverified.
Virat Kohli, the captain of the Indian cricket team, was rumoured to have had a high-profile relationship with Brazilian model Izabelle Leite. These rumours suggested that they first met at a party and quickly became the talk of the town. While Izabelle Leite preferred to label Virat Kohli as a friend, she did acknowledge their rumoured romantic involvement. She even made significant efforts to adapt to Indian culture, learning Hindi along the way. However, neither party officially confirmed the relationship, leaving fans guessing.
Legendary cricketer MS Dhoni once found himself at the centre of a rumoured romance with none other than Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone. Speculations ran wild when they walked the ramp together at a fashion show, showcasing their undeniable chemistry. However, as their careers took precedence, these rumoured romantic ties gradually faded away. Neither MS Dhoni nor Deepika Padukone ever confirmed the relationship. Eventually, Dhoni tied the knot with Sakshi, while Deepika married Bollywood sensation Ranveer Singh after years of rumoured dating.
Hardik Pandya, the dynamic all-rounder of the Indian cricket team, was rumoured to have been romantically involved with popular model Esha Gupta. Rumours suggest that they first crossed paths at a party, shortly after Hardik's rumoured breakup with another partner. Despite their frequent appearances together, both parties chose to keep their relationship low-key. However, Esha Gupta vehemently denied rumours of marriage between them. It's worth noting that Hardik Pandya's controversial comments on the "Koffee with Karan" show brought him into the spotlight for different reasons.
Suresh Raina, the ever-smiling cricketer, was rumoured to have dated Shruti Hassan, the talented actress and singer. Rumours of their relationship began in 2014, supposedly initiated by mutual friends. Shruti was often seen supporting Raina at Chennai Super Kings matches. However, their rumoured relationship was short-lived, and Suresh Raina later denied all claims of dating anyone. Shortly after, he was linked with Poorna, the daughter of Union Minister Praful Patel. Shruti Hassan, on the other hand, began dating Michael Corsale from London.
Yuvraj Singh, the cricketing hero who battled and overcame cancer, was rumoured to have had a four-year relationship with Bollywood actor Kim Sharma. Rumours swirled about their breakup in 2007, with various speculations regarding the reasons. Neither Yuvraj Singh nor Kim Sharma officially confirmed the relationship. Yuvraj Singh later tied the knot with model Hazel Keech in 2016, while Kim Sharma married Ali Punjabi in 2010, a Kenyan businessman and father of three, with her marriage ending in 2017.
Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan's name was linked with actress Isha Sharvani for a significant period. The couple was often spotted together, fueling the speculation. However, in 2012, Isha confirmed their rumoured breakup. Following the split, Zaheer Khan found love with Sagarika Ghatge, the famous actress from "Chak De India." The two tied the knot in Mumbai in a ceremony attended by both their families.
Ravi Shastri, the renowned cricketer and former Indian team coach, was rumoured to have been in a relationship with actress Amrita Singh during his playing days. Amrita was frequently seen in the stands during matches, passionately supporting Shastri. However, their rumoured relationship eventually came to an end, with both parties going their separate ways. Shastri later married Ritu Singh, while Amrita tied the knot with actor Saif Ali Khan.
Sourav Ganguly, one of India's most iconic cricket captains, was rumoured to have been in a relationship with actress Nagma during the early 2000s. However, their rumoured separation was attributed to their respective careers. Ganguly eventually married his childhood sweetheart, Dona.
The controversial cricketer Sreesanth was rumoured to have a romantic connection with Bollywood actress Riya Sen, sparked by their meeting during a jewellery brand commercial shoot.