From Hardik Pandya To Shikhar Dhawan: 10 Cricketers Who Went Through Divorce – In Pics

In the realm of cricket, the spotlight often shines brightly on players’ achievements and on-field performances. Yet, their personal lives, particularly their struggles with relationships and divorce, are equally compelling. This article explores the journeys of top cricketers, especially from India, who have navigated the challenging waters of marital splits. These stories offer a glimpse into the personal battles that accompany the glamour of their public lives.

1. Anil Kumble : From First Marriage to New Beginnings


Anil Kumble, one of India’s most revered cricketers, experienced a significant change in his personal life when he divorced his first wife, Chetana, in 1999. He later married Rachna, showing his resilience and ability to adapt in both his professional and personal arenas.

2. Wasim Akram: A Journey Through Love and Loss

Pakistani cricket legend Wasim Akram's personal life has been marked by both sorrow and new beginnings. After the death of his first wife in 2009, Akram found love again with Shaniera Thompson, whom he married in 2013. His story reflects a profound journey through grief and renewal.

3. Shane Warne: A Legend's Tumultuous Romantic Life


Australian spin wizard Shane Warne's personal life made headlines when he divorced Simone Callahan in 2005 after a decade of marriage. Warne’s subsequent engagement to Elizabeth Hurley ended in 2013, further highlighting the challenges he faced off the field.

4. Michael Clarke: Balancing Parenthood After Divorce


Former Australian captain Michael Clarke ended his marriage to Kyly Boldy in 2020. Despite the separation, Clarke continues to co-parent their daughter, demonstrating his commitment to balancing personal and professional responsibilities.

5. Kevin Pietersen: Navigating the End of a Relationship

English cricketer Kevin Pietersen and Jessica Taylor's marriage came to an end in 2021. Pietersen, citing growing apart, navigated the complexities of divorce while maintaining a focus on his career and personal life.

6. Hardik Pandya : Co-Parenting Amidst Separation


Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya and Natasa Stankovic announced their separation in 2024. Despite their split, the couple remains dedicated to co-parenting their son, Agastya, showcasing their mutual respect and commitment to their child.

7. Vinod Kambli: A Personal Transformation


Vinod Kambli, known for his explosive batting, saw his marriage to childhood friend Noella Lewis end in 2005. He later married Andrea Hewitt, following a conversion to Christianity, reflecting a significant personal evolution.

8. Mohammad Azharuddin: From Cricket Captain to Controversy


Former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin’s personal life was as high-profile as his cricket career. After divorcing Naureen, he married Bollywood actress Sangeeta Bijlani in 1996. Azharuddin’s life was further complicated by match-fixing scandals in 2000.

9. Dinesh Karthik: From Betrayal to New Beginnings


Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik’s first marriage to Nikita Vanjara ended in 2012, following an affair with teammate Murali Vijay. Karthik’s subsequent marriage to squash player Dipika Pallikal in 2015 marked a new chapter in his personal life.

10. Shikhar Dhawan : A Public Split


Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan’s divorce from Aesha Mukherji in 2021 after eight years of marriage highlighted the difficulties of maintaining relationships under the public eye. The split was described as amicable, reflecting the complexities of balancing personal and public lives.

These stories of cricketers dealing with divorce illustrate the personal challenges faced by even the most celebrated sports figures, reminding us that behind the headlines, they too grapple with life's ups and downs.