In a heartwarming video circulating on social media, Saif Ali Khan is seen sharing the rich cricket legacy of the Pataudi family with his son, Taimur Ali Khan. While Saif himself did not pursue a career in cricket like his late father and grandfather, he is ensuring that Taimur is well aware of their family’s illustrious history in the sport. The video, which has gained significant traction on Instagram, shows Saif explaining the family’s cricket history to Taimur as the young boy practices at a cricket club in London.
In one of the videos, Taimur is seen batting inside a net, dressed in a white T-shirt with a blue stripe, matching track pants, and sports shoes. Saif, on the other hand, sports a casual look in a grey cord-set, black sleeveless jacket, and brown shoes, with his hair tied in a tiny ponytail—a look he adopted for his role as the villain in his upcoming Telugu debut, Devara: Part 1.
Explaining the Concept of Cricket Counties
Another video showcases Saif explaining the concept of cricket ‘counties’ to Taimur. When Taimur questions him, Saif responds, “Counties are like clubs. Like Sussex, Worcestershire. Your great grandfather played for Worcestershire. Your grandfather captained Sussex.” As Taimur nods in understanding, Saif’s cricket coach, impressed by the family’s cricket history, inquires, “Is that right?” Saif proudly confirms.
Saif’s paternal grandfather, Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi, captained the Indian cricket team in 1946 and is the only Test cricketer to have played for both India and England. He was the prince of Pataudi for three decades before the state was integrated into India post-Independence. The Indian government bestowed upon him the title of Nawab of Pataudi.
Saif’s father, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, famously known as Tiger Pataudi, also captained the Indian cricket team and was honored with the CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest accolade by the BCCI for a former player. Tiger Pataudi married renowned actress Sharmila Tagore, a direct descendant of the legendary Nobel Prize-winning poet Rabindranath Tagore.
A Proud Heritage Passed On
Saif Ali Khan, married to Kareena Kapoor, has two sons—Taimur and Jeh Ali Khan. By sharing stories of their ancestors’ cricketing achievements, Saif is not only educating Taimur about their family’s prestigious heritage but also inspiring a sense of pride and continuity. This glimpse into the Pataudi family’s cricketing past is a testament to the enduring legacy and influence of the sport within their lineage.
Through these videos, Saif Ali Khan beautifully bridges the past and the present, ensuring that Taimur grows up with a deep appreciation for his family’s contributions to Indian cricket.