by A seven-year-old walks into school wearing a cricket jersey.
His friend doesn’t ask, “Whose jersey is that?”
He asks, “Is that #18?”
Welcome to Indian cricket, where numbers speak louder than names.
Jersey numbers aren’t random here. They’re carefully chosen symbols carrying luck, legacy, and sometimes a touch of destiny.
When Dhoni picked #7, he wasn’t just picking digits—he was creating history.
But here’s what most fans don’t know: There’s a whole universe beyond the famous numbers.
The complete 1 to 100 jersey number in cricket India tell fascinating stories that most people never explore.
Why does nobody wear certain numbers? What happens to jersey numbers after legends retire?
Why do players wear different numbers in IPL versus international matches? And what about those mysterious high numbers like #93 or #77?
Some numbers become brands worth millions. Others remain untouched for decades.
A few carry spiritual weight based on ancient numerology. And certain digits? They’re so legendary, players avoid them out of pure respect.
Behind every number is a story—some inspiring, some surprising, all worth knowing.
1 to 100 Jersey Number in Cricket India
This article unlocks them all.
From iconic legends to forgotten digits, we’re covering everything.
Keep reading. Cricket’s about to get more interesting.
Why Jersey Numbers Became Sacred in Indian Cricket?
Jersey numbers weren’t always a thing in cricket. Test matches featured plain whites with no identification except names.
Everything changed in 1992.
The World Cup introduced colored clothing. Suddenly, cricket had personality. Players needed numbers. And India, being India, turned those numbers into religion.
The Psychology Behind the Digits
Indian culture treats numbers with deep reverence. We consult astrologers before buying homes. We choose wedding dates based on numerology. So naturally, cricketers approach jersey numbers with similar seriousness.
Take MS Dhoni. Born on July 7th (7/7). Choosing #7 wasn’t just logical—it felt destined. That number witnessed India’s 2007 T20 World Cup win, the 2011 ODI World Cup triumph, and countless last-over finishes.
Or consider Virat Kohli’s #18. He wasn’t born on the 18th. But numerologists will tell you that 1+8=9, and nine carries massive spiritual weight in Hindu philosophy. Coincidence? Maybe. But Kohli’s success while wearing #18 makes believers out of skeptics.
From Numbers to Brands
Modern cricket isn’t just a sport—it’s entertainment, commerce, and identity rolled into one. Jersey numbers fuel this engine.
When Kohli posts a training video wearing #18, brands notice. When Dhoni appears in commercials with #7 visible, sales spike. When Rohit lifts trophies in #45, millions of kids beg their parents for that exact jersey.
These numbers transcend cricket. They become hashtags. They become merchandise lines. They become the bridge between players and a billion-plus fans.
The Complete Guide: 1 to 100 Jersey Number in Cricket India
Let’s break down the full spectrum. Some numbers are legendary. Some are forgotten. And some wait for their hero.
Here’s the comprehensive list of the 1 to 100 jersey number in cricket in India T20, and beyond:
| Jersey Number | Player Name | Era/Status | Special Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | KL Rahul | Current | Opener’s pride |
| 2 | Parthiv Patel | Former | Backup keeper |
| 3 | Rahul Tripathi | IPL player | Middle order |
| 4 | Ajinkya Rahane | Former VC | Test specialist |
| 5 | Gautam Gambhir | Legend | 2011 WC hero |
| 6 | Ruturaj Gaikwad | Rising star | Future captain material |
| 7 | MS Dhoni | ICONIC | Unofficially retired |
| 8 | Ravindra Jadeja | Early career | Before switching to 77 |
| 9 | Rahul Dravid | Early days | The Wall |
| 10 | Sachin Tendulkar | IPL/MI only | Never in internationals |
| 11 | Mohammed Shami | Current | Fast bowling ace |
| 12 | Yuvraj Singh | Legend | 6 sixes hero |
| 13 | Varun Chakravarthy | Current | Mystery spinner |
| 14 | Dinesh Karthik | Veteran | Finisher |
| 15 | Bhuvneshwar Kumar | Current | Swing king |
| 16 | Suryakumar Yadav | Current | 360 player |
| 17 | Rishabh Pant | Current | Explosive keeper |
| 18 | Virat Kohli | SUPERSTAR | Global icon |
| 19 | Umesh Yadav | Current | Pace bowler |
| 20 | Deepak Chahar | Current | Swing specialist |
| 21 | Axar Patel | Current | Left-arm spinner |
| 22 | Washington Sundar | Current | All-rounder |
| 23 | Kuldeep Yadav | Current | Wrist spinner |
| 24 | Shubman Gill | Future star | Next-gen captain |
| 25 | Prithvi Shaw | Talent | Opener |
| 26-32 | Squad rotation | Various | Tour-specific |
| 33 | Hardik Pandya | Current | All-rounder star |
| 36 | Shardul Thakur | Current | Lord Shardul |
| 45 | Rohit Sharma | Captain | Hitman |
| 63 | Arshdeep Singh | Current | Death bowling expert |
| 77 | Ravindra Jadeja | Current | Sir Jadeja |
| 93 | Jasprit Bumrah | Current | Yorker king |
| 99 | Ishan Kishan | Current | Aggressive keeper |
The Missing Numbers
Notice something? Huge gaps exist between certain ranges. The 26 jersey number in cricket appears occasionally but never permanently.
The 67 jersey number in cricket and the 76 jersey number in cricket remain largely unused in major international matches.
Why?
Several reasons. Indian cricketers prefer lower numbers (1-25) for tradition. Higher numbers feel less “cricket-like” to many players.
Plus, with squad sizes typically under 20 for major tournaments, numbers above 30 rarely see action outside IPL or practice matches.
Legends Written in Numbers: The Holy Trinity
#7 – MS Dhoni: When Calmness Wore a Number
If cricket were a religion, #7 would be its temple.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni didn’t just wear #7. He became it. Born on 7th July, the connection seemed cosmic. But what elevated this number to mythology was everything that followed.
The Journey of #7:
Picture April 2, 2011. Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. India is chasing 275 in a World Cup final. Dhoni walks in at a tense moment. On his back: #7.
What happens next defines a generation. That massive six over long-on. The roar. The celebration. India is becoming the world champion after 28 years.
That wasn’t luck. That was #7 magic.
From 2007’s T20 World Cup shock in South Africa to countless IPL titles with Chennai Super Kings, #7 witnessed it all.
The number became synonymous with finishing games, staying cool under pressure, and redefining what captaincy means.
Why #7 Feels Sacred Now:
Since Dhoni’s retirement in August 2020, no Indian cricketer has dared touch #7 in international cricket.
The BCCI hasn’t officially retired it, but an unspoken rule exists. It’s respect. It’s reverence. It’s understanding that some numbers transcend cricket.
When discussing the 1 to 100 jersey number in Cricket World, #7 stands with football’s #10 (Messi) and basketball’s #23 (Jordan). It’s that powerful.
#18 – Virat Kohli: Fire in Numerical Form
If Dhoni’s #7 represents calm, Kohli’s #18 screams passion.
Virat Kohli was born on November 5th, not the 18th. So why #18? The answer lies in numerology. Add the digits: 1+8=9. In Hindu numerology, nine is linked to Mars—energy, aggression, determination. That’s Kohli in a number.
The #18 Phenomenon:
Watch Kohli bat. Notice his intensity. The fist pumps. The roars. The chases. That’s #18 energy manifesting in every shot.
From his masterclass against Australia in the 2016 T20 World Cup (82* in a successful chase of 161) to countless ODI hundreds, #18 has been there. It’s witnessed his evolution from aggressive youngster to mature run-machine, from Delhi boy to global superstar.
Brand VK18:
Search “VK18” on any platform. You’ll find:
- Fashion lines
- Workout videos
- Motivational quotes
- Merchandise worth millions
Kohli turned #18 into a brand empire. Kids don’t just want cricket bats—they want “VK18 edition” bats. Adults don’t just buy jerseys—they buy #18 jerseys specifically.
That’s marketing genius meeting numerical identity.
#45 – Rohit Sharma: Elegance Has a Number
Rohit “Hitman” Sharma’s #45 doesn’t have an obvious birthday connection or numerological explanation. Yet it’s become inseparable from his identity.
Why #45 Matters:
Think of Rohit’s greatest moments:
- 264 vs Sri Lanka (highest ODI individual score)
- Three ODI double centuries (world record)
- Five IPL titles as Mumbai Indians captain
- Countless T20I centuries
Every single one happened with #45 on his back.
The number represents his batting style—patient, timing-based, explosive when needed. It’s not aggressive like #18. It’s not calm like #7. It’s uniquely Rohit—deceptively smooth until suddenly the ball’s in the stands.
As India’s current white-ball captain, #45 carries leadership weight now. When Rohit walks out for the toss wearing #45, fans feel confident. That number has been delivered too often to doubt.
The Rising Stars: Numbers Climbing the Fame Ladder
#93 – Jasprit Bumrah: Unconventional Everything
Bumrah’s bowling action defies coaching manuals. His yorker defies batsmen. And his #93 defies cricketing norms.
Most players choose numbers below 25. Bumrah went differently. #93 stands out in team photos. It’s unique. It’s memorable. It’s perfectly Bumrah.
The number has witnessed:
- Hat-tricks in crucial moments
- Death-over masterclasses
- Match-winning spells across formats
Indian fans now associate #93 with unplayable yorkers and match-turning breakthroughs.
#77 – Ravindra Jadeja: Double Seven, Double Threat
Jadeja initially wore #8 but switched to #77, creating cricket’s most distinctive double-digit.
Why #77? Jadeja hasn’t publicly explained, but theories abound:
- Spiritual significance (seven is powerful in many cultures)
- Doubling the luck factor
- Creating visual impact
Whatever the reason, #77 now means elite all-round cricket. Whether it’s sword celebrations after fifties or direct-hit run-outs, #77 delivers drama.
The 22 jersey number in cricket India belongs to Washington Sundar, but #77 has overshadowed most double-digit picks through sheer performance.
Hidden Gems: Numbers You Probably Forgot
#33 – Hardik Pandya: All-Rounder’s Identity
Hardik chose #33 early in his career. It’s not particularly famous yet, but watch this space. As Hardik matures into a complete all-rounder and potential captain, #33 could become iconic.
#63 – Arshdeep Singh: The New Death Specialist
Young Arshdeep Singh’s #63 is climbing the popularity charts. His death-bowling skills in T20S, especially against big names, have made #63 a number to watch.
This represents cricket’s future—young players building legacies with unconventional numbers.
#99 – Ishan Kishan: Aggressive Keeping
Ishan Kishan’s #99 mirrors his batting—going for the maximum. It’s close to 100, symbolic of seeking perfection. As he establishes himself in the team, expect #99 jerseys to flood markets.
The Forgotten Range: Numbers Between 26-100
Ever wondered about the 26 jersey number in cricket or the 67 jersey number in cricket? They exist in the system but rarely appear.
Why These Numbers Stay Hidden:
- Traditional Preferences
Indian cricket has deep roots in tradition. Players view numbers 1-25 as “proper cricket numbers.” Anything higher feels unusual, almost rebellious.
- Squad Size Reality
National teams carry 15-20 players for tournaments. Even with extended squads, numbers rarely exceed 25-30. This leaves 40-99 largely untouched.
- Cultural Numerology
Some numbers carry negative connotations in Indian numerology. Players avoid them instinctively, even if they won’t admit it publicly.
Exceptions That Prove the Rule:
- #77 (Jadeja) – Worked because it’s double-digit and spiritually significant
- #93 (Bumrah) – Succeeded through uniqueness
- #99 (Ishan) – Appeals to the younger generation seeking distinctiveness
The 76 jersey number in cricket remains virtually unused at the international level. Maybe a future superstar will claim it and rewrite the rules.
IPL vs International Cricket: When Numbers Split
This confuses fans constantly. Why does a player wear #24 in IPL but #17 for India?
- The Franchise Factor
IPL teams have their own numbering systems. When a player joins a franchise, their preferred number might already belong to someone else. So they choose alternatives.
- Example: Shubman Gill
Gill wears #24 for the Gujarat Titans in IPL. But in international T20s, depending on squad composition and availability, his number changes. It’s not inconsistency—it’s a practical necessity.
- The Sachin Exception
Sachin Tendulkar wore #10 exclusively for the Mumbai Indians in IPL. But he never wore it in international cricket for India. Why? Because by the time jersey numbers became standard in international cricket, Sachin didn’t want to claim any specific number permanently. That’s humility.
Yet #10 became so associated with him through IPL that BCCI unofficially retired it anyway.
| Player | International # | IPL # | Reason for Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sachin Tendulkar | None | 10 (MI) | Started IPL after international peak |
| Shubman Gill | Varies | 24 (GT) | Availability in the squad |
| Some players | Consistent | Consistent | Brand-building strategy |
When Numbers Become Brands: The Commercial Explosion
Cricket isn’t just a sport in India—it’s the economy. And jersey numbers fuel massive commercial engines.
The VK18 Empire
Type “VK18” into any search engine. Results include:
- Clothing brands
- Fitness equipment
- Energy drinks
- Mobile accessories
- Cryptocurrency endorsements
Kohli monetized #18 brilliantly. It’s not just his jersey—it’s his brand identity across platforms.
Thala7: The Fan Religion
Dhoni fans call themselves “Thala7” online. The hashtag trends during every CSK match. Merchandisers have sold millions of items with #7 printed on them—from phone cases to car stickers.
The Science Behind Number Marketing:
Brands know fans emotionally connect with jersey numbers. A generic “Team India” jersey sells okay. But a “#18 Kohli” jersey? Sold out within hours.
Why? Because fans aren’t buying fabric—they’re buying identity, aspiration, connection.
Unforgettable Moments: When Numbers Made History
Some performances are so legendary, they elevate jersey numbers to mythology.
| Player | Jersey # | Historic Moment | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS Dhoni | 7 | 91* in 2011 WC Final | Defined a generation |
| Virat Kohli | 18 | 82* vs Australia, 2016 T20 WC | Greatest T20 chase |
| Rohit Sharma | 45 | 264 vs Sri Lanka | Highest ODI score ever |
| Yuvraj Singh | 12 | Six sixes vs England, 2007 | Most dramatic over |
| Jasprit Bumrah | 93 | Hat-trick vs WI, 2019 | Death-over mastery |
| Gautam Gambhir | 5 | 97 in the 2011 WC Final | Unsung hero innings |
These weren’t just performances. There were moments when numbers crystallized into cricket folklore.
The Retirement Question: Numbers That Rest
Will India officially retire jersey numbers like sports teams in America?
Currently Unofficially Retired:
- #7 (MS Dhoni) – No one’s touched it since August 2020. Unspoken respect.
- #10 (Sachin Tendulkar) – Though only IPL-worn, treated as retired.
The BCCI’s Stance:
The Board of Control for Cricket in India hasn’t made official retirement announcements. But they clearly support the unofficial retirements through silence. When no player wears #7 for years, that’s policy through inaction.
Could More Numbers Be Retired?
If Kohli retires, will #18 be retired? Probably, given his global impact.
When Rohit eventually hangs up his boots, #45 might follow.
But cricket’s different from other sports. With 11 players constantly cycling through squads across three formats, officially retiring numbers creates complications.
The unofficial system works better—players simply respect the legends by avoiding their numbers.
The Future: What’s Coming for Jersey Numbers
Cricket evolves constantly. Jersey numbers will too.
Technology Integration
Imagine scanning a player’s jersey number with your phone during a match and instantly seeing:
- Live stats
- Career highlights
- Social media feeds
- Merchandise links
This technology already exists. Implementation is just a matter of time.
Personalization Boom
Younger cricketers, raised in the social media age, understand personal branding better. Expect more unique number choices like #93 or #77—digits that stand out and trend online.
Women’s Cricket Growth
As women’s cricket explodes in popularity, their jersey numbers will gain significance too. Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues—their numbers will soon be as recognizable as men’s.
Global Recognition
Indian cricket’s global reach means jersey numbers of Indian players are now recognized worldwide. #18 gets cheers in Melbourne, London, Johannesburg. That’s unprecedented cultural impact.
Quick Facts: Jersey Numbers Edition
- Most searched number: #18 (Kohli)
- Most emotional number: #7 (Dhoni)
- Fastest rising number: #93 (Bumrah)
- Most unique number: #77 (Jadeja)
- Rarest used numbers: 50-76, 78-92, 94-98
- Most valuable (merchandise): #18, followed by #7
- Newest iconic number: #63 (Arshdeep)
FAQs: Everything About Jersey Numbers
- Who currently wears jersey number 7 in Indian cricket?
Nobody. MS Dhoni’s #7 remains unofficially retired since his international retirement in August 2020. The BCCI hasn’t assigned it to any player out of respect for his legendary career. While technically available, no cricketer has dared claim it—that’s how powerful Dhoni’s legacy is.
- What is Virat Kohli’s jersey number and why?
Virat Kohli wears #18 for both India and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Though born on November 5th, he chose 18 based on numerology—1+8=9, a powerful number in Hindu astrology representing Mars, energy, and determination. It’s become one of cricket’s most recognized jersey numbers globally.
- Why is jersey number 10 considered retired?
Sachin Tendulkar wore #10 for the Mumbai Indians in IPL, making it iconic. Though he never wore it in international cricket, the BCCI unofficially retired #10 post-2017 out of respect. It represents the greatest cricketer’s legacy, even if not officially declared retired.
- Do players use different numbers in IPL versus international matches?
Yes, frequently. IPL franchises have their own numbering systems. If a player’s preferred number is taken, they choose alternatives. For example, Sachin wore #10 in IPL but never internationally. However, established stars like Kohli maintain #18 across formats for brand consistency.
- What happens to jersey numbers after players retire?
Most numbers get reused by new generations. However, #7 and #10 remain unofficially retired. The BCCI shows silent respect by not assigning these legendary numbers. Other numbers typically become available after a reasonable gap, allowing new players to build their own legacies.
Final Word: Numbers That Connect Generations
Cricket is more than statistics and trophies. It’s a connection. It’s emotion. It’s memory.
The 1 to 100 jersey number in cricket india represents this perfectly.
These aren’t random assignments—they’re carefully chosen identities that link players to fans across generations.
When a grandfather in Bangalore tells his grandson about Dhoni’s 2011 World Cup six, he mentions #7.
A teenager in Delhi dreams of playing for India, she imagines which number she’ll wear.
When a young boy in Kolkata gets his first cricket jersey as a gift, he begs for #18 because Kohli is his hero.
That’s the power of jersey numbers. They’re time machines, connecting past glory to present passion to future dreams.
As cricket evolves, these numbers will gain even more significance. Technology will enhance how we interact with them. New legends will claim new digits. And the cycle continues.
But some numbers—#7, #18, #45—will forever hold special places in cricket’s story.
They’re not just numbers anymore. They’re legacy, stitched into fabric, worn with pride by those representing cricket’s most passionate nation.
So next time you watch India play, look beyond the boundaries and wickets. Notice the numbers. Each one carries a story waiting to inspire you.
The game is beautiful. The numbers make it unforgettable.
Play on, champions. Your numbers speak louder than words ever could.
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