Overseas Cricketers of India: Why ABD, Gayle, Lee and others should be given Indian citizenship

SOME YEARS AGO, most international cricketers didn't fancy touring the Asian sub-continent for any extended period of time. In fact, many even expressed their disgust of being in India, Pakistan or Sri Lanka. Worse, some cricketers even carried drinking water from their respective countries. 

However, today all that has changed and suddenly, the Indian sub-continent has become a happy hunting place for several international cricketers. With the emergence of the T20 and IPL, opportunities have been plenty for one and all in India. As the demand for the format picked up, coupled with serious money, cricketers also cashed in and have continued to enjoy their stay in our country. 

Many cricketers have also openly confessed their love for India's culture, food and people. Whether or not any on field action is happening or not, we have seen marquee players spending their time in India, owing to different committments. 

From AB de Villiers, Jonty Rhodes to Brett Lee, we have seen many stars making their appearance in our country. Some have even gone on to call India their second home. Also, the fans in India have shown more attachment and have been supporting them regardless of the competition. 

Here, we take a look at some famous names in the world of cricket who could easily be given Indian citizenship taking into consideration their fanfare, adulation and love for India.