Gautam Gambhir to contest for BJP in the 2019 Delhi general elections?

Continuing the tradition of cricketers taking up politics after hanging up boots in the game is renowned Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir. If the reports are anything to go by, the former opening batsman would be contesting for BJP in the Delhi general elections in 2019.

As per a report by Dainik Jagaran, BJP is looking to give a ticket to Gautam Gambhir to win power and restore its image in New Delhi which is currently being ruled by Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

If he does end up joining BJP, Gambhir wouldn’t be the first Indian cricketer to turn into a politician. The likes of Masoor Ali Khan Pataudi Navjot Singh Sidhu, Kirti Azad, Mohammad Azharuddin, and Mohammad Kaif among others have all served as politicians for different political parties in the country.

Gautam Gambhir stands as one of the most popular opening batsmen produced by India. The southpaw, who made his national debut in 2003, played a key role in handing over many victories to India. He, along with Virender Sehwag, forged a formidable opening pair for many years and took the game away from the opposition on many occasions. In fact, it was Gambhir’s heroics in the finals of the 2007 T20 World and the 2011 World Cup that helped India lift both the trophies.

Gautam Gambhir is also a sought-after player in the IPL. The man, who captained Kolkata Knight Riders to two titles, was picked up by Delhi Daredevils in this year’s tournament.