Before they became household names, these Australian cricket stars were simply kids with big dreams.
Some of them became Test stars, others excelled in the shortest form of the game, while an elite few became champions in all formats of cricket, and even in other sports.
Can you guess these famous Australian cricket stars from their childhood photographs?
This young woman would soon trade fairy dresses and dolls for football players and cricket bats.
This young prodigy was destined for greatness, excelling in both cricket and football during her youth. Known for her calm demeanor and versatility on the field, she went on to dominate international cricket as a powerful all-rounder. Her athletic prowess was evident even as a child, often playing with boys and holding her own.
Even from a young age, this student of the game took cricket very, very seriously.
Even as a child, this cricketing genius showed an obsession with perfecting his craft. His unusual batting technique and tireless practice sessions were the first signs of the master batsman he had become. Once dubbed the “next Shane Warne” for his leg-spin bowling, he became one of the most consistent batsmen in the world. Take a close look at this photo – can you see this future cricket star?
He doesn’t share many photos from his childhood, but his baby face helped him earn the nickname “Puppy.”
The little boy in this photo had dreams as bright as his nickname, “Pup.” Known for his elegance with the bat and sharp cricketing brain, he grew up idolizing the greats of Australian cricket. This future captain left his mark with an unforgettable debut century. His leadership helped Australia through some of its most memorable matches.
Who would have thought this young student would make Australian sporting history?
A natural leader from a young age, this budding star could always be found with a bat in hand. She quickly rose through the ranks and became the youngest captain of the Australian women’s cricket team. Known for her tactical mind and powerful striking game, she has rewritten the record books.
This Australian cricketer lost his baby fat and became a star of the game in the Twenty20 world.
This mischievous looking young man grew up with a love of bowling, inspired by the great Shane Warne. His quirky personality and signature hairstyle make him stand out both on and off the field. Known for his clever variations and calmness under pressure, he is a winner in the shortest format of the game.
No, it’s not the Waugh brothers or two of the Chappells. They’re not the Marsh brothers either. Can you guess which Australian cricket brothers they are?
These two brothers were inseparable growing up, sharing a love of cricket and a healthy dose of sibling rivalry. The elder stunned the world with a record innings on debut, while the younger brought his fiery pace to Australian cricket.
Being bold and brash has helped this cricket star have many big moments playing for Australia.
This sporting child always stood out, whether on the cricket field or with a paintbrush in his hand. With a proud indigenous heritage, she has become a pioneer for diversity in cricket. Known for her explosive batting and deft spin, she has helped Australia win many matches with her fearless approach.
The swashbuckling T20 superstar also has a Test century playing for Australia playing in India
This cheeky smile belonged to a boy known for taking risks, both in cricket and in life. Growing up, he developed a knack for unorthodox shots and earned a reputation as a game-changer in limited overs cricket. His nickname, “The Big Show,” reflects his ability to single-handedly change games.
Answers:
Ellyse Perry
For a time, Ellyse Perry played for both the Matildas and the Australian cricket team at international level.
This athlete’s exceptional talent was evident from a young age, excelling in both cricket and football. She made her international cricket debut aged just 16 and has since become one of Australia’s most famous all-rounders. Throughout his career, he has played over 250 international matches, amassing over 5000 runs and taking over 300 wickets across all formats. Her accolades include being named ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Decade (2011-2020) and winning multiple Belinda Clark Awards. Her calm demeanor and versatility on the field have made her a role model for aspiring athletes.
Steve Smith
Steve Smith is on course to become one of Australia’s best Test batsmen alongside the likes of Ricky Ponting and The Don.
From the beginning, this cricketer dedicated himself to mastering his craft. He initially made his mark as a leg-spinner but transformed into one of the best batsmen in the world. He has represented Australia in over 300 international matches, scoring over 14,000 runs, including numerous centuries in Test and ODI formats. His unique batting technique and tireless work ethic have earned him accolades such as the Allan Border Medal on multiple occasions.
Michael Clarke
Clarke was a middle-order powerhouse who led Australia to many famous victories.
Affectionately known as “Pup”, this cricketer’s elegant batting and keen intellect were evident from his youth. He captained Australia with distinction, leading the team to a World Cup victory in 2015. Throughout his career, he played over 380 international matches, amassing over 17,000 runs, including 36 centuries. His leadership and performances on the field have left an indelible mark on Australian cricket.
Meg Lanning
Lanning has been a very important driver of women’s cricket and its success in Australia.
A natural leader from her early years, she became the youngest captain of the Australian women’s cricket team. Under his leadership, Australia achieved multiple World Cup titles. She has played over 200 international matches, scoring over 7000 runs and is renowned for her tactical acumen and powerful stroke play. Her contributions have been instrumental in elevating women’s cricket in Australia.
Adam Zampa
Zampa is known for his tight bowling in limited overs cricket and his flamboyant personality.
Inspired by the legendary Shane Warne, this spinning toy is known for his quirky personality and distinctive hairstyle. He has been a key figure in Australia’s limited overs teams, playing over 150 international matches and taking over 200 wickets. His clever variations and composure under pressure have made him a winner in the shorter formats of the game.
Agar Wes and Ashton
Ashton Agar with his family in the UK for his Test debut, including his cricketer brother Wes (pictured second from right)
These brothers shared a passion for cricket from a young age. Ashton, the eldest, made headlines with a record 98 on his Test debut as a teenager. He has played more than 60 international matches, contributing as a versatile all-rounder. Known for his pace bowling, Wes has represented Australia in limited overs formats, showcasing his fiery deliveries. Their sibling rivalry and shared love of the game have been a unique addition to Australian cricket.
Ashleigh Gardner
Ashleigh Gardner has become one of the best all-rounders the women’s game has ever seen.
Proud of her indigenous heritage, this talented all-rounder has been a pioneer in Australian cricket. Known for her explosive batting and effective spin, she has played over 100 international matches, scoring over 1500 runs and taking over 100 wickets. Her fearless approach and commitment to promoting diversity have made her an inspiration both on and off the field.
Glenn Maxwell
The Big Show Glenn Maxwell entertains audiences around the world with his smash hit
Nicknamed ‘The Big Show’, this cricketer is famous for his unorthodox shots and game-changing skills in limited overs cricket. He has represented Australia in over 200 international matches, scoring over 7000 runs and taking over 100 wickets. His daring strokeplay and versatility have made him a fan favorite and a crucial asset in Australia’s middle order.