Usain Bolt is undoubtedly the fastest man alive but do you know that his first love was not athletics? Well, it was cricket. Originally aspiring to be a fast bowler, his path shifted when his father, Wellesley, stopped him from becoming a cricketer. Bolt could have followed in the footsteps of Jamaican speedsters Michael Holding and Courtney Walsh he used to admire. Despite this change, Bolt’s love for cricket has persisted over the years.

Recently, Bolt was appointed as an ambassador for the upcoming Men’s T20 World Cup, showing his enduring connection to cricket. However, his decision to switch from cricket to athletics was influenced by a compelling reason given by Bolt’s father. This rationale convinced Bolt to leave behind his first love and embrace the world of athletics.

A father’s convincing reason for Usain Bolt to choose athletics

An athletics legend and world record holder in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay, Usain Bolt’s story begins in the rural landscapes of Jamaica. Growing up, Bolt found joy in cricket and football, spending his days playing in the streets with his brother. However, when the time came to choose a sport, Bolt’s father intervened, recognizing the opportunities athletics could offer within Jamaica’s sporting system. Reflecting on his father’s advice, Bolt remarked, “My dad said because of the system in Jamaica, it would be better to take up athletics.”

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This choice set Bolt great success which earned him eight Olympic gold medals. Despite his athletic success, Bolt’s love for cricket never faded. In 2014, he returned to the sport and played alongside cricket icon Yuvraj Singh. Bolt’s performance, including a match-winning 19-ball 45, showed his talent.

Even legendary cricketers like Curtly Ambrose praised Bolt’s skills, affirming his prowess with both bat and ball. Also, in a charity match in 2009, he showed his skills to Chris Gayle which he recently recalled on X.

Bolt vs. Chris Gayle: Who is the real legend?

Yesterday, Usain Bolt shared a video capturing a cherished moment from his past. The video resurfaced a remarkable encounter between the world-renowned sprinter and West Indies cricket luminary Chris Gayle. In a throwback to 2009, Bolt showed his prowess on the cricket field during a charity match near his hometown of Trelawny. He bowled Gayle. Reflecting on this memorable incident, Bolt reignited interest in their lighthearted banter, inviting fans to reminisce alongside them.

In the video, Gayle, when prompted about his dismissal by Bolt, fondly recalled the spirited ambiance of the charity match, acknowledging Bolt’s impressive bowling skills with a grin. “Usain Bolt got me out in the charity game,” Gayle admitted, remembering the jovial exchange.