Yusuf Pathan and Kirti Azad:
The stage is set for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, with political parties tightening their belts and announcing their candidates. Among them, several former cricketers have come to the forefront. In West Bengal, under the banner of Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress (TMC), a complete list of candidates for all 42 Lok Sabha seats has been released.
Interestingly, TMC has granted tickets to two former Indian cricketers, Yusuf Pathan and Kirti Azad. Both have been World Cup winners for India, with Pathan assigned to Berhampore and Azad to Durgapur.
Yusuf expresses gratitude to Mamata and TMC
Following their ticket confirmation, reactions from the star players are now public. World Cup-winning all-rounder Yusuf took to social media to thank Mamata and her party for incorporating him into the TMC family and trusting him to be the voice of the people in parliament.
He penned a note of thanks saying, 'I'm indebted to Mamata Banerjee for including me in the TMC family and entrusting me with the responsibility to represent the public in parliament. It's my duty to uplift the poor and marginalized as a representative, and I hope to fulfill this mandate.'
'People from all artistic fields should have opportunities.'
On the other hand, when asked about his familiarity with the politics of Bengal, Kirti replied, 'I'm well-acquainted with politics. My father was the Chief Minister and a freedom fighter. Ultimately, it's our obligation to listen, understand, and elevate the people's issues into parliament. This is something we will progress with.'
In response to the party's increasing opportunities for cricketers, he said, 'How can we overlook that there's also Manoj Tiwary, who is a minister. Whether it's the arts, cinema, or painters, Didi has provided a platform for everyone. Individuals from all artistic fields should have chances.'
TMC candidate Kirti speaks out against BJP
While the political pitch of Delhi is familiar, how does he plan to bowl (strategize) on Bengal's pitch, especially Durgapur? To this, Kirti said, 'There is nothing like a different pitch. You play the ball, not the bowler. Our opponent is the BJP, and the issues at hand are similar.'
