Because of the attitude in which it is played, cricket is known as the gentleman's game. With the bat and ball, athletes have frequently been put to the test. Numerous injuries have occurred in the game in spite of all the safeguards and safety precautions. Players have demonstrated resolve, giving the world's grit and determination yet another dimension. Despite suffering excruciating injuries, cricket players have bravely played for the benefit of their team.

Malcolm Marshall – West Indies (1984)

Malcolm Marshall was hailed as one of the best fast bowlers to ever grace the sport. The cricket player was severely injured when he played after breaking his hand. Marshall's one-handed batting allowed Larry Gomes to reach his ton. Later, the former pacer led the attack from the front and helped his team win the match with the ball. Malcolm Marshall single-handedly won the match and the hearts of all cricket fans himself with figures of 7/53.

Shane Watson – Australia/ Chennai Super Kings (2018)

One of the greatest IPL finals in the tournament's history was played between the Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. Shane Watson had sustained an injury early in the competition. Shane Watson fought alone as the Mumbai bowlers continued to take wickets. The Australian was out for 80 in his last competitive cricket match. Despite the Australian player being injured and playing with a gust of wind, Mumbai won the match and the championship by a margin of one run.

Graeme Smith – South Africa (2009)

Former South Africa skipper Graeme Smith was the epitome of perseverance and determination. Mitchell Johnson used a bouncer to break Smith's hand in Sydney during the 2009 Australian tour. Smith walked out to bat as the game entered its final hour. Graeme Smith emerged to applause in one of the greatest moments of a cricket player playing despite an injury. The South African captain was even applauded by the Australian audience. In the closing moments of the day, Australia won the match despite Graeme Smith's one-handed batting. As the two teams left the pitch, Ricky Ponting was seen applauding Smith's bravery.

Anil Kumble – India (2002)

Anil Kumble's grit and determination are something that no Indian can forget. One of cricket's most inspirational moments was when Anil Kumble came out of the pavilion in the Antigua Test of 2002, ready to bowl with his face bandaged. Merv Dillon hit Kumble, who was batting at No. 7. Despite spitting blood, he continued to fight for another 20 minutes. This was the fourth Test in the series, which was tied 1-1. India made a 513 for 9 declaration.

Kumble's perseverance brought him to the pitch despite his broken jaw, even though no one was expecting him there. Bowling with a fractured jaw, Kumble became the first bowler to dismiss Brian Lara, sending down 14 successive overs. "At least I can now go home with the thought that I tried my best," he said, referring to his scheduled flight back to Bangalore for surgery the next day.

"It was one of the bravest things I've seen on the field of play," said Viv Richards later.

Rishabh Pant - India (2025)

One day after suffering a foot injury, India's vice-captain Rishabh Pant joined the Indian team at Old Trafford on Day 2 of the fourth Test match against England. During the last session of Day 1 in Manchester, Rishabh Pant, batting on 37 in the 68th over of India's innings, tried a bold reverse sweep to a yorker-length delivery from Chris Woakes. His right foot was hit by the ball. The appeal was denied because of an inside edge, even after an England review. However, Pant was observed limping in obvious pain. Before being taken off the pitch and retiring hurt, the team physio hurried in to treat him. Pant was sent for scans after stumps, and the results verified a fractured toe. However, despite the fracture, he came out to bat on day 2.