Indian cricketers show open support for student protests (Source: Ishan Kishan's social media & AFP)
In a country like India, Cricket and cricketers hold immense and nearly mythical influence on the society. Indian cricketers are not mere players; they are cultural icons and social leaders as a result of the public adoration.
Wearing the national colours creates a public perception that players represent the country’s ethos off the field just as they do on it. Thus, due to their national identity, Indian cricketers' fans view their massive platforms as a tool for social accountability.
Indian Cricketers voice their thoughts on Delhi student protest
In the last couple of days, several Indian cricketers have shared their opinion on the ongoing Delhi student protest, a major youth-led movement centred at Jantar Mantar.
Driven by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), protesters demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and wide-ranging reforms over public examination irregularities like the NEET paper leaks.
Current players like Shubman Gill and legends like Sachin Tendulkar have voiced their thoughts regarding the ongoing student protests in New Delhi. Along the same lines, in this article, let’s take a look at the list of other Indian cricketers who openly supported the student protests.
Here’s how they have reacted:
Ishan Kishan
“My thoughts are with every student and family dealing with uncertainty. Hoping things are resolved soon, and wishing everyone fairness and the opportunity to move forward. 🇮🇳✨”
Shikhar Dhawan
“Our youth are the future of our nation. It is essential to understand their dreams, but at the same time, it is equally important to maintain patience in difficult times and keep faith in the country's institutions and government.”
Also read: Yuvraj Singh Breaks Silence On CJP Protests With Special Message On Social Media
“I believe that the solution to every challenge emerges with patience. India has always moved forward and will continue to progress.”
Suresh Raina
“Every challenge is an opportunity to find better solutions. Hoping the current situation leads to calm, constructive dialogue and thoughtful decisions that create opportunities, and a stronger future for students, institutions, and the nation. 🇮🇳”
Aakash Chopra
“The concerns and emotions of our young students deserve to be heard with empathy and respect.”
“I have full faith that the authorities will examine every issue with fairness, transparency, and in the best interests of our youth. Trust in due process is important, just as important is maintaining peace, patience, and dignity in how we express ourselves.”
“Our students are the future of our nation. Let’s support them, stand by them, and ensure that hope always triumphs over fear.”
Sanjay Manjrekar
“I stand in solidarity with the youth of India. Do not suppress them, give them wings. They will take India to new heights. #DelhiProtest”
Other celebrities from the cricket fraternity on student protests
Apart from the current and retired India cricket team members themselves, many celebrities from the fraternity have also expanded their backing for the protests. Here, take a look:
Anaya Bangar
“Students deserve a fair, transparent education system where hard work is rewarded. It’s also important that people are able to raise their concerns peacefully and be treated with dignity.”
“My thoughts are with every student and family affected, and I sincerely hope meaningful steps are taken to restore trust in our education system Jai Hind 🇮🇳”
Devisha Shetty, wife of Former India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav
“The moment you throw stones, attack police, break barricades, destroy public property, you're no longer protesting. You're breaking the law.”
Sanjana Ganesan, wife of Indian ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah
“If this can happen to a six-year-old sitting away from the protest, it can happen to anyone. No democracy should normalize children choking on tear gas. No peaceful citizen should have to fear the people meant to protect them.”
Notably, this is not the first time Indian cricketers have come forth in support of a national cause or an issue. Last year, several players shared their thoughts on the Pahalgam Attack. Indian team members, namely Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir, were among the players and officials who condemned the terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam.
However, it is tough to say what comes under the influence of political influence or an individual’s personal belief.
Also read: How Shivam Dube Is Silently Emerging As India's Secret Weapon For World Cup 2027
