Best 10 Cricketers Who Changed Their Religion in 2025

Religion and cricket are two exceptionally distinctive perspectives of life; however, when a celebrated cricketer changes their confidence, it frequently draws public attention. Whereas individual convictions are a private matter, the change of these cricketers reflects their personal ventures and life choices. Here’s a look at the 10 Cricketers Who Changed Their Religion and the stories behind their decisions.

1. Mohammad Yousuf (Pakistan)

Former Pakistani cricketer Mohammad Yousuf, once known as Yousuf Youhana, was born into a Christian family. A middle-order batsman of extraordinary expertise, Yousuf changed over to Islam after being impacted by the Tablighi Jamaat between 2005 and 2006. Taking after his transformation, he embraced the title Mohammad Yousuf and became known for his dedicated, devout faith.

2. Tillakaratne Dilshan (Sri Lanka)

Tillakaratne Dilshan, one of Sri Lanka’s most dangerous openers, was initially born into a Muslim family as Tuwan Mohammad Dilshan. After his parents’ divorce, he chose to practice Buddhism, the religion of his mother. His transformation reflected his individual conviction framework and association with his upbringing.

3. Wayne Parnell (South Africa)

South African quick bowler Wayne Parnell converted to Islam in 2011 after being motivated by the religion’s standards. Post transformation, he embraced the title Waleed, meaning “newborn son.” Since that point, Parnell has straightforwardly practiced Islam and has moreover been an advocate for animal rights, frequently supporting PETA’s initiatives.

4. Suraj Randiv (Sri Lanka)

Born as Mohammed Masruk Suraj, this Sri Lankan off-spinner afterward changed over to Buddhism, changing his title to Suraj Randiv. He made his make a big appearance against India in 2009 and has since been known for his calm mien both on and off the field.

5. Vinod Kambli (India)

Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli, known for his effective batting and his companionship with Sachin Tendulkar, was born a Hindu. In any case, he converted to Christianity after marrying a Christian lady. His choice reflected his regard for his wife’s confidence and his openness toward modern beliefs.

6. Mahmudul Hasan (Bangladesh)

Mahmudul Hasan, a former Bangladeshi cricketer and Under-19 World Cup player, was born into a Muslim family. Afterward, in life he chose to take up Hinduism and changed his title to Vikash Ranjan Das. His choice was a profoundly individual one, symbolizing his otherworldly transformation.

7. A.G. Kripal Singh (India)

A.G. Kripal Singh, an Indian batsman and off-spinner from a famous cricketing family, was initially Sikh. He changed over to Christianity to wed the lady he cherished, shaving his whiskers and hair as part of his modern confidence. His story is one of cherishing rising above social and devout barriers.

8. Bikash Ranjan Das (Bangladesh)

Born into a Hindu family, Bikash Ranjan Das later converted to Islam and became known as Mahmudur Rahman. A left-arm fast-medium bowler, he spoke to Bangladesh during their early a long time in worldwide cricket, including their first-ever Test match.

9. Bjorn Fortuin (South Africa)

South African all-rounder Bjorn Fortuin changed over to Islam in 2021, receiving the Muslim title Imaad. A skilled left-arm spinner and tried and true batsman, Fortuin’s otherworldly travel motivated numerous of his fans. He followed in the footsteps of individual South African cricketer Wayne Parnell.

10. Shivnarine Chanderpaul (West Indies)

West Indies legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul, one of the most prominent batsmen of his era, grasped the viewpoints of Hinduism afterward in life. Of Guyanese beginning, Chanderpaul has frequently talked about his partiality with Hindu conventions and values. With 164 Test and 268 ODI appearances, his cricketing legacy proceeds to shine.

Conclusion.

Faith is a profoundly individual journey, and for these cricketers, their devout changes speak to their advancing convictions, and lifestyles. Whereas cricket joins together fans around the world, these stories remind us that past the boundaries and scoreboards, players as well experience significant individual changes.