The highly anticipated England vs India Test series has recently commenced, with the iconic Headingley Stadium in Leeds hosting the opening clash. As cricket enthusiasts around the world immerse themselves in the gripping on-field battles, fierce rivalries, and tactical masterstrokes, it’s worth turning attention to a quieter yet equally significant dimension, the unwavering support system behind the players.
Beyond the stadium lights and roaring crowds, the wives and girlfriends of Indian cricketers form an essential foundation in their lives. These remarkable women often stay away from the limelight, but their emotional strength, encouragement, and companionship are instrumental in shaping the mental resilience and focus that elite-level cricket demands. Whether traveling alongside their partners, managing responsibilities back home, or simply being a source of peace in a high-pressure career, they play a silent yet vital role in every milestone and triumph. Their stories, often untold, deserve recognition as we celebrate not just the players on the field, but also the people who walk beside them off it.
Meet the wives and girlfriends of Indian cricketers
1. KL Rahul & Athiya Shetty
Indian cricketer KL Rahul tied the knot with Bollywood actress Athiya Shetty, daughter of veteran actor Suniel Shetty, in a beautiful private ceremony in January 2023. The wedding took place at Suniel Shetty’s picturesque farmhouse in Khandala, attended by close friends and family. The couple had been in a relationship for several years prior to their marriage. Athiya, an emerging star in the film industry, frequently shares snippets of their life on social media. Known for their shared love of travel, Rahul often credits Athiya as his emotional anchor during the ups and downs of his cricketing career.
2. Ravindra Jadeja & Rivaba Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja is married to Rivaba Jadeja, a politician and social worker who represents the BJP as an MLA from Gujarat. The couple married in 2016 and have a daughter together. Rivaba is a constant pillar of strength in Jadeja’s life, often seen cheering him on from the stands during crucial matches. Her active engagement in politics and social initiatives reflects the couple’s dynamic public presence.
3. Jasprit Bumrah & Sanjana Ganesan
India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah married renowned sports anchor Sanjana Ganesan in March 2021. With a career that spans IT, modeling, and sports broadcasting, Sanjana became a familiar face on Star Sports and ICC events. Her deep knowledge of the game has helped build a strong mutual understanding in their relationship, despite their demanding professional schedules. She also served as ICC’s Digital Insider during the 2019 World Cup.
4. Prasidh Krishna & Rachna Krishna
Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna is married to Rachna Krishna, who has remained a quiet yet steady presence in his life. The couple shares a warm and loving bond, often spotted together at public events. Rachna’s support has been instrumental in helping Prasidh stay grounded and focused, especially during the highs and lows of his cricketing journey.
5. Shardul Thakur & Mittali Parulkar
Shardul Thakur exchanged vows with Mittali Parulkar on February 27, 2023. Shardul, who debuted internationally for India in 2017, found his life partner in Mittali, an entrepreneur and accomplished baker. While Shardul continues to shine on the cricket field, Mittali runs her own baking venture and remains deeply rooted in the entrepreneurial space.
Also READ: Karun Nair’s wife: Who is Sanaya Tankariwala? The woman behind Indian batter’s success
6. Karun Nair & Sanaya Tankariwala
Karun Nair married Sanaya Tankariwala, a media professional, in January 2020. Their wedding celebrated both Parsi and Malayalee traditions in Udaipur, Rajasthan, and was graced by several cricketers including Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Varun Aaron. Sanaya has been a constant source of encouragement throughout Karun’s career.
7. Kuldeep Yadav & Vanshika (Engaged)
Kuldeep Yadav got engaged to Vanshika in a private ceremony held in Lucknow in June. Vanshika, originally from Shyam Nagar in Kanpur, works at LIC and shares a long-standing bond with Kuldeep that dates back to their childhood. The engagement was attended by close family and friends, including several Uttar Pradesh cricketers, highlighting Kuldeep’s deep roots in the region.
8. Rishabh Pant & Isha Negi (Girlfriend)
Rishabh Pant has been romantically linked with Isha Negi, an entrepreneur and interior designer from Dehradun. The couple made headlines in January 2019 when Pant shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, officially introducing Isha to the public. While their social media activity together has decreased, especially after Pant’s 2022 accident, Isha remains a prominent part of his personal life.
Also READ: In pics: Meet the wives and girlfriends of England cricketers – ENG vs IND 2025 Test series
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