Many cricketers prefer to avoid alcohol, valuing fitness, focus, and professionalism. Notable examples include Moeen Ali, who quit drinking for better health, and Rashid Khan, who chose sobriety after struggling with alcohol in his youth. Others like Imran Tahir have emphasized discipline and abstained from alcohol throughout their careers. This approach often supports their high-level performance and longevity in the sport.
5. Moeen Ali
Moeen Ali, the England all-rounder, is known for his versatility in all formats of the game. Despite being part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), a team owned by an alcoholic beverage company, Moeen does not participate in any alcoholic promotions. He maintains his discipline and focus, much like other cricketers such as Mohammad Siraj, who also avoid involvement in alcohol-related activities.
4. Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan, the Afghan leg-spinner, is a rising star in world cricket. He holds the record for the fastest to 100 ODI wickets, achieving the feat in just 44 matches. Renowned for his T20 skills, Rashid is a key player for the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL and Adelaide Strikers in the BBL. Despite his growing fame, Rashid, like many Muslim cricketers, chooses to abstain from alcohol. He notably rejected alcohol during an IPL after-party, staying true to his values and ethics, a stance shared by his teammate Mohammad Nabi.
3. Imran Tahir
Imran Tahir, one of the top wrist spinners in world cricket, has consistently delivered exceptional performances, especially in limited-overs formats. Known for his lively wicket celebrations, Tahir has been a key figure in South Africa’s bowling attack, playing over 100 ODIs and representing his country in Tests and T20Is. As a devout Muslim, he follows a strict no-alcohol policy, much like his former teammate Hashim Amla, and avoids alcohol-related endorsements, including the Castle Lager logo on his jersey.
2. Sachin Tendulkar
Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary Indian cricketer, has always maintained a clear stance against endorsing alcohol and tobacco. In 2010, he rejected a lucrative brand deal, which would have been the largest ever for an Indian sports figure. Sachin later revealed that his father advised him to avoid promoting such products. True to his values, he never associated with any alcohol or tobacco brands throughout his long career, demonstrating integrity over monetary gain.
1. Hashim Amla
Hashim Amla, the South African cricketer, is known for his strong religious beliefs, particularly in Islam. As alcohol promotion is against his faith, Amla refused to endorse the “Castle Lager” logo on his jersey, even giving up the sponsorship money. Cricket South Africa respected his decision and removed the logo from his shirt, with Amla paying a fine for not endorsing the alcohol brand. His actions reflect his dedication to his principles.