In India, cricket is more than just a game, it’s a passion that unites our nation. For many years, there have been so many athletes who have achieved greatness not only on the field but also shown patriotism. To appreciate their impact the Indian armed forces honoured them with prestigious military ranks. Here is the list of some athletes who received Indian military ranks. (Photo- X)
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Sachin Tendulkar- Group Captain in the Indian Air Force: Widely known as “God of Cricket”, Sachin Tendulkar’s contribution to world cricket is remarkable. After a long career of two decades, with countless records, he became an example of brilliance and sincerity. For his achievements and inspiring millions of people worldwide, the Indian Air Force honoured him with the rank of Group Captain in 2010. He became the first sportsperson to achieve this award from the Indian Air Force. (Photo- X)
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Mahendra Singh Dhoni - Lieutenant Colonel: After Dhoni led India to victory in major ICC tournaments, including the ICC T20 World Cup 2007 and ICC ODI World Cup 2011 under his captaincy, he was honoured with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army in 2011. Dhoni has always shown his love and respect for the armed forces, and he also completed the army training. (Photo- X)
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Kapil Dev - Lieutenant Colonel: Former Indian Captain Kapil Dev, who guided India to its first cricket World Cup in 1983 is known for his patriotism and dedication towards the Indian armed forces. Dev was honoured with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Territorial Army in 2008. Dev has always shown his support for the Indian Army and also participated in multiple military-related events. His honesty towards the nation, both on and off the field, has earned him the respect and love from both the cricketing and army communities. (Photo- X)
CK Nayudu - Colonel in the Holkar Army: India’s first test captain CK Nayudu had a special picture in cricket history. He was appointed as Colonel in the Holkar Army in 1932 by the ruler of Holkar state, nearly a decade before India played its first official Test match. Later in 1932, he became the captain of the Indian team in its first Test match. Nayudu’s leadership and cricketing mindset made him an example of sportsmanship and patriotism. (Photo- X/BCCI)
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Hemu Adhikari - Lieutenant Colonel: Hemu Adhikari was one of the few Indian cricketers who actively served for the Indian military during his cricketing career. He mentored many young talents and also fulfilled his army responsibilities. He served as a Lieutenant Colonel and also played a key role in India’s 1971 victory on the England tour. (Photo- X)
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Neeraj Chopra - Lieutenant Colonel: Indian Javelin Star Neeraj Chopra, also known as the Golden Boy of India, was awarded the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army on October 22, 2025. Neeraj is the first Indian Athlete to win an Olympic Gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. He also won a silver medal at the Paris Olympics in 2024. Moreover, Neeraj also acquired the gold at the World Athletics Championship 2023. His dedication to the game and patriotism earned him a rank in the armed forces. (Photo- X)
