Cricket ranks among the most widely followed sports globally, played internationally in over 100 nations. The rising popularity of the T20 and T10 formats has contributed to its increasing appeal in recent years. Several new nations have embraced the sport and are steadily advancing. Nations lacking sufficient home-grown talent often rely on top cricketing countries abundant with skilled players.
However, there also have been instances were there have been captains who were born in other country but went onto lead different country. Hence, let us look at three such players who have done this in the history of the game;
Muhammad Waseem
Muhammad Waseem is a cricketer hailing from Pakistan who represents the United Arab Emirates (UAE) national cricket team. After being born in Pakistan, he spent his formative years in Mian Channu, located in Punjab. Familiarly known as Babba, Waseem became eligible to play for the UAE in April 2021 after fulfilling the three-year residency criteria.
Recently, Muhammad Waseem was appointed as the captain of the UAE team for T20Is. Earlier this year, Waseem assumed the role of ODI captain for the UAE team and led them in the World Cup Qualifiers 2023.
Scott Edwards
Netherlands' Scott Edwards, hailing from Tonga but raised in Melbourne, unexpectedly ascended to captaincy after impressing in club cricket for Excelsior '20. Initially a wicketkeeper, he showcased leadership qualities and refined his batting under coach Ryan Campbell. Stepping up as captain following Pieter Seelaar's retirement.
Edwards led the Netherlands to notable achievements, including a top 8 finish at the 2022 T20 World Cup and qualification for the 2023 50-over World Cup. Edwards even played crucial role in both the games which the Dutch side won in the tournament.
Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes is one of the most dynamic all-rounders of contemporary cricket, exudes infectious energy on the field. His passionate demeanor and aggressive character ensure there are rarely any dull moments in his presence. A forceful left-handed batsman known for his ability to strike big hits and play substantial innings, Stokes is equally proficient with the ball.
Capable of bowling at considerable speeds, he possesses a knack for delivering breakthroughs even when his team faces adversity. Originally from New Zealand, Ben Stokes relocated with his family to the United Kingdom, where he now represents the England cricket team. In the past year, Stokes assumed the role of captain for England's Test team, demonstrating notable effectiveness in his leadership thus far.