4 iconic Indian sportspersons who switched from cricket in their childhood

#3 Pullela Gopichand

Pullela Gopichand receiving the Dronacharya award

Before the rise of Saina Nehwal, the one name that struck every Indian's mind when thinking about Badminton was Pullela Gopichand. He became the second Indian ever to win the All England Open Badminton Championship in 2001. He also won the silver and bronze medal at 1998 CWG in Men's team and Men's bronze respectively. The Indian badminton star was also awarded the Arjuna Award after his performance at the 1998 Commonwealth Games.

However, few people know that he wanted to become a cricketer in his youth. However, his elder brother felt his talent could be utilized somewhere else and thus encouraged him to pick up the badminton racquet. The decision proved fruitful for him as now after an illustrious playing career in the racquet sport, he is the Chief National Coach of Indian Badminton team and is considered to be the mastermind behind India's recent rise in the sport.