Before they became household names, these Aussie cricket stars were just simple kids with big dreams.
Some of them became Test stars, others excelled in the shorter form of the game while the elite few became champions in all formats of cricket – and even other sports.
Can you guess these famous Aussie cricket stars from their childhood photos?
This young lady would soon swap fairy dresses and dolls for footy studs and cricket bats
This young prodigy was destined for greatness, excelling in both cricket and soccer during her youth. Known for her calm demeanour 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 very young age, this student of the game took cricket very, very seriously
Even as a kid, this cricketing genius showed an obsession with perfecting his craft. His unusual batting technique and tireless practice sessions were early signs of the master batsman he’d become. Once nicknamed the “next Shane Warne” for his leg-spin bowling, he grew into one of the world’s most consistent batsmen. Look closely at this photo—can you spot this future cricketing star?
He doesn’t share many childhood photos, but his baby face helped earn him the nickname “Pup”
The 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 idolising the greats of Australian cricket. This future captain made his mark with an unforgettable debut century. His leadership saw Australia through some of its most memorable matches.
Who would have thought that this young student would go on to 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, becoming the youngest captain of the Australian women’s cricket team. Known for her tactical mind and powerful stroke play, she’s rewritten the record books.
This Aussie cricketer lost the baby fat and became a star of the game in the Twenty20 world
This mischievous-looking youngster grew up with a love for leg-spin bowling, inspired by the great Shane Warne. His quirky personality and trademark hairstyle make him a standout both on and off the field. Known for his clever variations and calm under pressure, he’s a match-winner in the shortest format of the game.
No, it is not the Waugh brothers, or two of the Chappells. They are not the Marsh brothers either. Can you guess which Aussie cricket siblings they are?
These two brothers were inseparable growing up, sharing a love for cricket and a healthy dose of sibling rivalry. The older one stunned the world with a record-breaking debut innings, while the younger brought his fiery pace to Australian cricket.
Being bold and brash has helped this cricket star to many big moments playing for Australia
This sporty child always stood out, whether on the cricket field or with a paintbrush in hand. With proud Indigenous heritage, she’s become a trailblazer for diversity in cricket. Known for her explosive batting and handy off-spin, she’s 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 grin belonged to a boy known for taking risks – both in cricket and in life. Growing up, he developed a flair for unorthodox shots and earned a reputation as a game-changer in limited-overs cricket. His nickname, “The Big Show,” reflects his ability to turn matches around single-handedly.
Answers:
Ellyse Perry
For a period of time Ellyse Perry was playing 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 soccer. She made her international cricket debut at just 16 and has since become one of Australia’s most celebrated all-rounders. Over her career, she has played more than 250 international matches, amassing over 5000 runs and taking over 300 wickets across all formats. Her accolades include being named the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Decade (2011–2020) and winning multiple Belinda Clark Awards. Her calm demeanour and versatility on the field have made her a role model for aspiring athletes.
Steve Smith
Steve Smith is on track to become one of Australia’s best ever Test batsmen along with the likes of Ricky Ponting and The Don
From his early days, this cricketer was dedicated to mastering his craft. Initially making his mark as a leg-spinner, he transformed into one of the world’s premier batsmen. He has represented Australia in over 300 international matches, scoring more than 14,000 runs, including numerous centuries in Test and ODI formats. His unique batting technique and relentless work ethic have earned him accolades such as the Allan Border Medal multiple times.
Michael Clarke
Clarke was a middle-order powerhouse who led Australia to many famous victories
Known affectionately as “Pup,” this cricketer’s elegant batting and sharp cricketing 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, accumulating more than 17,000 runs, including 36 centuries. His leadership and on-field performances have left an indelible mark on Australian cricket.
Meg Lanning
Lanning has been a hugely important driver of women’s cricket and its success in Australia
A natural leader from her early years, she became the youngest ever captain of the Australian women’s cricket team. Under her leadership, Australia secured multiple World Cup titles. She has played over 200 international matches, scoring more than 7000 runs, and is renowned for her tactical acumen and powerful stroke play. Her contributions have been pivotal in elevating women’s cricket in Australia.
Adam Zampa
Zampa is known for his tight bowling in limited overs cricket and his flamboyant personality
This leg-spinner, inspired by the legendary Shane Warne, is known for his quirky personality and distinctive hairstyle. He has been a key figure in Australia’s limited-overs squads, playing over 150 international matches and taking more than 200 wickets. His clever variations and composure under pressure have made him a match-winner in the shortest formats of the game.
Wes and Ashton Agar
Ashton Agar with his family in the UK for his Test debut, including his cricket playing brother Wes (pictured second from right)
These brothers shared a passion for cricket from a young age. Ashton, the elder, made headlines with a record-breaking 98 on his Test debut as a teenager. He has played over 60 international matches, contributing as a versatile all-rounder. Wes, known for his pace bowling, has represented Australia in limited-overs formats, showcasing his fiery deliveries. Their sibling rivalry and shared love for 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
This talented all-rounder, proud of her Indigenous heritage, has been a trailblazer in Australian cricket. Known for her explosive batting and effective off-spin, she has played over 100 international matches, scoring more than 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 big hitting
Nicknamed “The Big Show,” this cricketer is renowned for his unorthodox shots and game-changing abilities in limited-overs cricket. He has represented Australia in over 200 international matches, scoring more than 7000 runs and taking over 100 wickets. His daring stroke play and versatility have made him a fan favourite and a crucial asset in Australia’s middle order.
