Aryaman Birla, the world’s richest cricketer, has garnered attention not for his on-field exploits but for his remarkable wealth and early retirement from cricket.
Born on July 9, 1997, in Mumbai, he is the son of Kumar Mangalam Birla, the chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, one of India’s largest conglomerates.
Aryaman’s estimated net worth is around ₹70,000 crore, surpassing even cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli.
Cricket Career Overview
Aryaman Birla’s cricket journey began in Madhya Pradesh, where he moved to pursue junior-level cricket. He made his first-class debut for Madhya Pradesh in November 2017 against Odisha and played a total of nine first-class matches.
His standout performance came during the 2018 Ranji Trophy season when he scored an unbeaten 103 runs against Bengal at Eden Gardens, helping his team secure a draw after being asked to follow on.
In total, he accumulated 414 runs in first-class cricket, including one century and one half-century.
Despite being signed by the Rajasthan Royals in the 2018 IPL auction for ₹30 lakh, Aryaman never made his debut in the tournament.
He spent two seasons with the franchise but remained on the bench and was eventually released in November 2019.
Early Retirement
In December 2019, Aryaman announced an indefinite sabbatical from cricket due to personal reasons, primarily citing mental health challenges stemming from injuries and pressure.
He expressed feeling “trapped” and emphasized the need to prioritize his well-being over his cricketing ambitions. This decision came as a surprise given his family’s legacy in business and sports.
Transition to Business
After stepping away from cricket, Aryaman transitioned into the family business. He currently serves as a director at Aditya Birla Management Corporation and Grasim Industries, taking on significant responsibilities within the conglomerate.
His role signifies a shift from sports to corporate leadership, where he is viewed as a key figure for the future of the family business.
Legacy and Impact
While Aryaman Birla may not have made a significant mark in professional cricket compared to other players, his story highlights the intersection of wealth, mental health awareness, and personal choice in sports.
His journey serves as a reminder that success can take many forms and that prioritizing mental health is crucial for athletes navigating high-pressure environments.
