Yusuf Pathan, who made his international debut during India’s winning 2007 T20 World Cup final against Pakistan, is going to try his luck in politics.
As a Trinamool Congress candidate, he is defeating Congressman Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury by a sizable margin in the Baharampur Lok Sabha seat in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district.
Yeah, Yusuf Pathan’s decision to enter politics has surprised many. But he is committed to retaining his reputation as a sportsman while serving his constituency. “Uparwale ka rahem, karam bolein (call this God’s goodness, blessings), I always feel that I am for great matches, moments,” Yusuf said after accepting the TMC’s proposal to enter politics.
“I just need to bat for them. I do not want to be a politician. I want to keep my sporting image. But if I win, I promise to work for my constituency and spend at least eight days every month there.
Yusuf’s Cricket Career and Achievements
The 41-year-old is new to politics; his life to until has been defined by cricket. Yusuf Pathan gained a reputation as a strong and clean hitter of the ball. Pathan’s decision to enter politics was therefore a BIG move. Or in retrospect, a masterstroke by Mamata Banerjee, the chief minister and TMC supremo.
His IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders won in 2012 and 2014, and the two celebrated with club owner Shah Rukh Khan at Eden Gardens. Mamata opted to place Pathan against heavyweight Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury in a seat with a Muslim majority of more than 66%.
The star all-rounder is one of the few cricketers to have won both the T20 and ODI World Cups. As well as three IPL titles with two different clubs. Yusuf was born on November 17, 1982, and his rise to the cricket world is a HUGE sign of determination and commitment that began in his formative years in Vadodara.
Growing up in the busy area surrounding the city’s famed Jama Masjid, Yusuf and his younger brother Irfan Pathan were exposed to life’s ups and downs from a young age. Their father, Mehmood Khan Pathan, struggled tirelessly as a ‘Muezzin’, calling believers to pray five times daily.
Despite his low salary and large expenses, Mehmood Khan instilled in his children a strong sense of discipline and religion. The Pathan brothers’ passion for cricket grew in the narrow streets and little grounds surrounding the Jama Masjid. Their natural potential was recognized, and it was here that Yusuf met Mehendi Sheikh. He was a local coach who would play an important role in setting his cricket career.
Recognizing Yusuf Pathan’s potential, Sheikh took him under his wing. He offered technical advice, emotional support, and inspiration.
Transition to Politics
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Despite being the older of the two brothers, Yusuf made his international debut three years after Irfan. This delay just increased his drive to succeed. His ability to turn games around with his power-hitting and critical wickets made him an important player for India in shorter forms. he was a member of the MS Dhoni-led 2011 ODI World Cup winning squad.
Pathan’s most notable moments came in the IPL, when he wowed his fans with a dazzling 37-ball century against the Mumbai Indians in 2010, one of the quickest hundreds in tournament history.
Yusuf joined KKR in 2011 and has been a constant member of the squad for seven years. His sole regret was being unable to play in any Tests for India. He may wind up playing a lengthy game in politics, though.
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About the Author
Zartash Zulfiqar is a passionate cricket writer whose love for cricket shines through in every word. From match analyses to player profiles, she delivers insightful commentary that resonates with fans worldwide. Stay tuned for the latest from the world of cricket, brought to you by Zartash.
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