Former Cricketer Yusuf Pathan Named TMC Candidate for Baharampur Lok Sabha Seat

Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee announced former Indian cricketer Yusuf Pathan as the party’s candidate for the Baharampur Lok Sabha seat in Murshidabad district. This announcement was made during a massive rally at Kolkata’s Brigade Parade Ground, where 42 candidates were revealed by the TMC.

Yusuf Pathan, known for his dynamic performances in cricket, particularly in the limited-overs format, will be contesting from Baharampur. His candidacy sets the stage for a potential face-off against West Bengal Congress president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, who has been a vocal critic of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

In addition to Yusuf Pathan’s nomination, Mahua Moitra, who was previously expelled from the Lok Sabha in connection with a bribe-for-question scam, will be contesting from the Krishnanagar Lok Sabha constituency. This seat previously sent her to the Lok Sabha in 2019.

However, the decision to drop TMC MP Nusrat Jahan from the Basirhat constituency has garnered attention, possibly as a repercussion following the Sandeshkhali controversy. Nusrat Jahan has been replaced by Haji Nurul Islam from Basirhat.

Yusuf Pathan’s cricketing journey is illustrious, marked by his crucial contributions to India’s limited-overs cricket team, including victories in the 2007 ICC WT20 and the 2011 ICC World Cup. Renowned for his performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Yusuf Pathan represented teams like Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Sunrisers Hyderabad.

As a long-serving member of the Baroda Ranji team, Yusuf Pathan has left an indelible mark in domestic cricket. His international career includes appearances in 22 T20Is and 57 ODIs, where he showcased his prowess as an all-rounder. In 2021, he announced his retirement from international cricket, culminating a remarkable journey on the cricket field.

Yusuf Pathan’s nomination adds an intriguing dimension to the political landscape, blending the realms of sports and governance. His candidacy reflects the TMC’s strategic approach in fielding candidates with diverse backgrounds, aiming to resonate with voters across different segments. As the Lok Sabha election approaches, all eyes will be on Baharampur, where Yusuf Pathan seeks to make an impact beyond the cricket pitch.

Also Read: Emraan Hashmi Shines in Gripping Drama ‘Showtime’ on Disney Plus Hotstar