11 August,2026 02:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Saif Ali Khan. Pic via X
Saif Ali Khan may be one of Bollywood's most recognisable faces, but a recent viral video has reminded fans that cricket runs deep in the actor's family. The actor was spotted bowling in a London club cricket match, and judging by his impressive run-up and pace, it appears he has inherited more than just his father's love for the sport.
In the video, Saif is seen dressed in traditional cricket whites and charging in to bowl with a full-fledged run-up and action. The clip has since made its way across social media, with fans pleasantly surprised by the actor's sporting skills.
Despite being 56, Saif appeared remarkably fit as he delivered his spells. His bowling action even prompted comparisons with former England fast bowler Darren Gough, with social media users praising the actor for maintaining an athletic approach to the game.
For Saif, cricket is hardly unfamiliar territory. He is the son of the late Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, one of Indian cricket's most celebrated captains. Pataudi made history when he became India's captain at just 21 and went on to represent the country in 46 Test matches.
The former cricketer also enjoyed an extensive first-class career, playing more than 310 matches for teams including Delhi, Hyderabad and Surrey.
Saif recently travelled to the UK to pay tribute to his late father, legendary cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, at a special ceremony held at Winchester College.
Growing up around one of Indian cricket's biggest names meant Saif witnessed the sport at close quarters. Over the years, the actor has spoken about how his father's discipline, focus and passion for cricket influenced his upbringing.
While acting eventually became Saif's chosen profession, his connection with cricket has remained strong. The latest video offers a glimpse of the actor enjoying the sport away from film sets and perhaps reconnecting with a part of his family legacy.
Saif, a National Award-winning actor, was last seen in the Netflix film Kartavya. He is now gearing up for Priyadarshan's Haiwan, where he shares the screen with Akshay Kumar. The actor is reportedly set to play a blind samurai in the upcoming film.
For now, though, it is Saif's bowling action rather than his latest acting project that has won the internet's attention.
