Cricket is more than just a sport—it’s an emotion that resonates with millions across the globe. Fans follow the game in different ways: some love playing it on the field, others never miss a live broadcast, and many enjoy adding extra thrill by placing wagers on matches. Beyond the boundary lines, cricket has also inspired some of the most compelling storytelling in cinema.
Filmmakers have beautifully brought the essence of the game to the silver screen—recreating historic victories, narrating real-life journeys of cricketing legends, and even portraying fictional tales that reflect the struggles and triumphs of players. In this article, we’ll explore five cricket movies that every true fan must watch at least once.
1. M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016)
Few names shine brighter in Indian cricket than Mahendra Singh Dhoni. His calm leadership, remarkable finishing skills, and unforgettable 2011 World Cup triumph made him a national icon. M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story chronicles his inspiring journey—from his childhood in Ranchi and his days working as a ticket collector to becoming one of the most celebrated captains in cricket history.
The film struck a chord with audiences worldwide, releasing across 61 countries and becoming one of the highest-grossing Indian films of 2016. What made it special was not just the cricketing moments, but the way it captured Dhoni’s resilience, humility, and determination. For fans, it felt less like watching a film and more like reliving history.
2. Iqbal (2005)
Unlike Dhoni’s biopic, Iqbal is a fictional story, yet its emotional impact feels incredibly real. The film follows Iqbal, a deaf and mute boy from a small village, who dreams of wearing the Indian jersey. Despite his father’s disapproval, Iqbal persists with the help of his sister and eventually finds a mentor in Mohit, a once-great cricketer battling his own struggles.
This heartwarming tale demonstrates the power of perseverance against overwhelming odds—disability, financial hardships, and societal pressure. Upon release, Iqbal won multiple awards, including a National Award, and remains one of the most inspiring Indian sports dramas to date.
3. 83 (2021)
For those who cherish the golden era of Indian cricket, 83 is pure nostalgia. The movie recreates India’s historic 1983 World Cup win under the captaincy of Kapil Dev. It showcases the team’s underdog journey, filled with challenges, nail-biting matches, and the eventual moment of glory at Lord’s.
Featuring Ranveer Singh as Kapil Dev, the film captures not just the cricket but also the emotions of an entire nation that came together to celebrate an unlikely victory. Though its box office numbers in India were impacted by the pandemic, it became a massive overseas success and bagged several awards, further cementing its place in cricket cinema.
4. Sachin: A Billion Dreams (2017)
Unlike traditional sports dramas, this film offers a more intimate look at cricket’s greatest icon—Sachin Tendulkar. Narrated in his own voice, Sachin: A Billion Dreams presents a heartfelt documentary that delves into his childhood, his rise to stardom, and the sacrifices behind his legendary career.
The film beautifully combines personal memories with iconic moments like the 2011 World Cup and his struggles, including the loss of his father. While it didn’t dominate the box office, it left a lasting impact by giving fans rare insight into the man behind the legend.
5. Fire in Babylon (2010)
Fire in Babylon steps away from Indian cricket to highlight the dominance of the West Indies team during the 1970s and 1980s. Combining archival footage with interviews from legends such as Viv Richards, Clive Lloyd, and Michael Holding, the documentary explores how the Caribbean team transformed their reputation from being underestimated to becoming one of the most feared cricketing sides in history.
The film also touches upon deeper social themes, including racial pride and the political resistance against apartheid-era South Africa. Celebrated at multiple international film festivals, it remains a must-watch documentary for cricket fans across the globe.
Cricket has always been more than just a game—it’s a reflection of dreams, struggles, and unifying moments that inspire generations. The movies above capture these emotions in unique ways, giving fans a chance to experience the game beyond the field.
So the next time there isn’t a live match to catch, grab some popcorn and dive into these cinematic gems. Not only will they entertain you, but they’ll also remind you why cricket holds such a special place in the hearts of millions.
