The BJP is considering nominating Indian cricket star Mohammad Shami from West Bengal for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, as per a report by India Today. Shami currently represents Bengal in the Ranji Trophy and continues to play domestic cricket for the state.
Sources have disclosed that the BJP has approached Shami with the opportunity to run in the election, although Shami has not yet made a decision. The party is contemplating Shami as a potential candidate for the upcoming general elections in West Bengal.
Internal discussions within the BJP suggest that Shami’s candidacy could enhance the party’s chances of winning in minority-dominated constituencies in Bengal. If Shami agrees, he may run from the Basirhat Lok Sabha constituency, which has been in the spotlight due to recent violence in Sandeshkhali village.
Currently, the 33-year-old cricketer is on a break from international matches as he recovers from a recent surgery. Shami has been inactive since India’s ODI World Cup 2023, where he played a crucial role in the team’s journey to the final with 24 wickets in seven matches.
Read: Lok Sabha Election 2024: Congress leaders meet to finalize party’s candidates
Following India’s loss in the World Cup 2023 final against Australia, PM Modi personally met with the players in the dressing room to offer his support. He commended Mohammad Shami for his outstanding performance in the tournament and shared a hug with him.