Cricket has produced quite a few stars over time, with gamers turning into family names and transcending the game itself. Amongst these, a number of have risen to international icon standing, not just for their performances on the sphere but additionally for his or her immense affect off it. Sachin Tendulkar, sometimes called the ‘God of Cricket’, revolutionized the sport along with his extraordinary expertise and sportsmanship. Sir Vivian Richards introduced a swagger and aptitude that captivated followers worldwide. Fashionable stars like MS Dhoni, AB de Villiers, and Steve Smith have continued this legacy, enchanting followers with their expertise and management.
Ross Taylor picks his selection
Former New Zealand cricketer Ross Taylor, who has seen many greats throughout his illustrious profession, just lately shared his ideas on who he believes stands out as a world celebrity in cricket. Throughout his look on a podcast, Taylor singled out Indian cricketer Virat Kohli, evaluating his international affect to that of soccer legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Taylor highlighted Kohli’s huge social media presence and his influence on international sports activities tradition. Notably, Kohli, who has a staggering 269 million followers on Instagram, is the most-followed Indian athlete and cricketer on the planet. This locations him simply behind Ronaldo, with 630 million followers, and Messi, who has 501 million, within the hierarchy of sports activities personalities on social media.
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Taylor emphasised the shift led to by the rise of social media, noting how athletes have grow to be extra accessible to followers and have began to endorse manufacturers extra continuously. He remarked on the belief followers place in these athletes, turning them into influential figures past their sports activities. Taylor mirrored on how sudden such developments would have been in 2008, however now, figures like Kohli stand as international superstars within the broader world of sports activities.
“Gamers are placing outposts endorsing merchandise and issues like that. Who would have considered that in 2008? Somebody like Kohli, who’s a celebrity on the planet of cricket, however can be a world celebrity on the planet of sports activities. When it comes to Instagram and social media, he’s up there with Ronaldo and Messi!” stated Taylor on ‘180 Not Out’ podcast.
Taylor mentioned the broader implications of social media on public figures, together with athletes, film stars, Bollywood celebrities, and politicians. He acknowledged that whereas this elevated scrutiny might sound difficult, it in the end contributes to larger accessibility and connection between followers and their idols.
“Yeah, I believe you’re extra accessible, I don’t assume sportsmen are simply as critiqued. I believe film stars, Bollywood stars, politicians are all below the microscope now due to social media however I don’t assume that could be a dangerous factor,” he added.
