Cricket has given rise to many legends who have captivated fans with their skills and sportsmanship. A number of these stars have gone on to channel their leadership and fame into the political arena. Leveraging their public image and experience, they’ve stepped off the field to take on roles in shaping their nations. This article explores ten cricketers who have made notable strides in politics. Here Are the Top 10 Cricketers Who Involve in Politics
10. Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir, once a key opener for India, was instrumental in the country’s triumphs at the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup. Following his retirement from professional cricket, he entered politics by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2019. That same year, he was elected as the Member of Parliament representing East Delhi. Since then, Gambhir has been actively involved in tackling local civic issues and advocating for the growth of sports in his constituency, marking his transition from cricket to politics.
Gautam Gambhir’s Political Profile:
| Country | India |
| Political Party | Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) |
| Position Held | Member of Parliament (East Delhi) |
| Year Joined Politics | 2019 |
9. Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, fondly remembered as “Tiger Pataudi,” was among India’s most dynamic and stylish cricket captains. In 1971, he stepped into the political arena by contesting elections as a candidate from the Vishal Haryana Party. Though he wasn’t successful in securing a seat, his entry into politics showcased his commitment to serving the public. His journey earns him a spot among the Top 10 Cricketers Who Involve in Politics.
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi’s Political Profile:
| Country | India |
| Political Party | Vishal Haryana Party |
| Position Contested | Member of Parliament |
| Year Joined Politics | 1971 |
8. Richard Hadlee
Sir Richard Hadlee, regarded as one of New Zealand’s finest fast bowlers, hasn’t taken a direct plunge into politics but has played a significant role in cricket administration and public service. Through his involvement, he has impacted sports development initiatives and influenced policy-making related to athletics in the country. His leadership beyond the field secures him a place among the Top 10 Cricketers Who Involve in Politics.
Richard Hadlee’s Public Service Profile:
| Country | New Zealand |
| Political Involvement | Cricket administration |
| Contributions | Sports development policies |
| Recognition | Knighted for services to cricket |
7. Anil Kumble
Anil Kumble, one of India’s most iconic leg-spinners, has expressed an interest in politics, though he hasn’t formally affiliated with any political party. Beyond the pitch, he has taken on key roles in cricket administration and notably served as the head coach of the Indian national team. His contributions to the governance and development of Indian cricket highlight his leadership qualities, earning him a spot among the Top 10 Cricketers Who Involve in Politics.
| Country | India |
| Political Involvement | Cricket administration |
| Positions Held | Head Coach, Committee Member |
| Contributions | Cricket governance reforms |
6. Muttiah Muralitharan
Muttiah Muralitharan, the legendary Sri Lankan spin maestro, ventured into politics by aligning with the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna party. Beyond his cricketing fame, he has actively participated in community development efforts and has leveraged his popularity to support and promote social welfare initiatives across Sri Lanka. His impactful transition places him among the Top 10 Cricketers Who Involve in Politics.
Muttiah Muralitharan’s Political Profile:
| Country | Sri Lanka |
| Political Party | Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna |
| Political Role | Community development advocate |
| Year Joined Politics | [Year not specified] |
5. Mohammad Azharuddin
Mohammad Azharuddin, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, entered the political scene in 2009 by joining the Indian National Congress. He went on to win a seat in the Lok Sabha, representing Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh. Throughout his political journey, Azharuddin has focused on advancing sports and education initiatives in his constituency, earning him a place among the Top 10 Cricketers Who Involve in Politics.
Mohammad Azharuddin’s Political Profile:
| Country | India |
| Political Party | Indian National Congress |
| Position Held | Member of Parliament (Moradabad) |
| Year Joined Politics | 2009 |
4. Laxmi Ratan Shukla
Laxmi Ratan Shukla, once a promising Indian all-rounder, transitioned into politics by joining the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) in West Bengal. He was appointed as the Minister of State for Youth Services and Sports, where he dedicated his efforts to enhancing sports infrastructure and launching youth development initiatives. His work in public service secures his spot among the Top 10 Cricketers Who Involve in Politics.
Laxmi Ratan Shukla’s Political Profile:
| Country | India |
| Political Party | All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) |
| Position Held | Minister of State for Youth Services and Sports |
| Year Joined Politics | [Year not specified] |
3. Sourav Ganguly
Sourav Ganguly, celebrated as one of India’s most successful cricket captains, has been linked with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), though he hasn’t formally joined active politics. His prominent role as President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) carried significant political influence, reflecting his presence in circles beyond the cricketing world. This blend of leadership and political connection places him among the Top 10 Cricketers Who Involve in Politics.
Sourav Ganguly’s Administrative Profile:
| Country | India |
| Political Association | Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) |
| Position Held | BCCI President |
| Year of Involvement | [Year not specified] |
2. Kapil Dev: The Brief Politician
Kapil Dev, the legendary captain who led India to its historic first World Cup win in 1983, made a brief foray into politics. He joined the Janata Dal (United) in 2004 but soon stepped away from active political engagement. Although his time in politics was short, his status as a national icon helped draw attention to issues related to sports. In the years that followed, Kapil shifted his focus to cricket commentary, philanthropic efforts, and business pursuits. His political involvement, though limited, demonstrated the powerful influence cricketing legends can have in shaping public discourse.
Kapil Dev’s Political Profile:
| Country | India |
| Political Party | Janata Dal (United) |
| Position Held | None (brief political entry) |
| Year Joined Politics | 2004 |
| Focus After Politics | Philanthropy, Commentary |
1. Imran Khan: The Visionary Leader
Ranking number 1 in the list of Top 10 Cricketers Who Involve in Politics, Imran Khan is arguably the most successful cricketer to transition into politics. After leading Pakistan to its only World Cup victory in 1992, he went on to establish the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Following years of political challenges, he ascended to the role of the 22nd Prime Minister of Pakistan in 2018. His leadership was marked by significant reforms, diplomatic efforts, and a populist approach. Despite a politically turbulent tenure, Imran Khan’s journey from cricketing legend to national leader remains unparalleled, inspiring numerous athletes to look beyond their sports careers and pursue meaningful roles in governance and public service.
Imran Khan’s Political Profile:
| Country | Pakistan |
| Political Party | Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) |
| Position Held | Prime Minister |
| Year Joined Politics | 1996 |
| Focus After Politics | 2018 |
In conclusion, these Top 10 Cricketers Who Involve in Politics demonstrate that the leadership and dedication required on the cricket field can easily translate into impactful roles in the political arena. From advocating for sports development to championing social causes and driving national reforms, these cricketers have proven that their influence extends far beyond the boundaries of the cricket ground.
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