Yusuf Pathan, renowned for his exceptional performances in big cricket matches, is now stepping onto a different pitch – the complex field of politics. The powerhouse all-rounder, who made his international debut during India’s triumphant 2007 T20 World Cup final against Pakistan, is now a Member of Parliament representing Trinamool Congress.
Yusuf Pathan wins big in Lok Sabha elections
The World Cup winner won against the Congress heavyweight Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury in the Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday. Yusuf accumulated 4,76,913 votes while Adhir Chowdhury earned 4,03,651 votes in the Baharampur Lok Sabha seat in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district. His entry into politics has been a surprise, but he remains committed to maintaining his image as a sportsperson while serving his constituency.
In a region with a substantial Muslim population, Mamata Banerjee’s decision to field Pathan against Chowdhury has proven to be a masterstroke. Despite facing challenges from BJP’s Nirmal Chandra Saha and being labelled an outsider, Pathan has embraced the fight, often repeating TMC’s slogan, “Khela Hobe” (I’m up for a fight).
Pathan’s cricketing journey is a story of perseverance and dedication. Growing up in Vadodara, he and his brother Irfan were exposed to life’s challenges from an early age. Their father, Mehmood Khan Pathan, worked tirelessly as a muezzin, instilling discipline and faith in his children. Under the guidance of local coach Mehendi Sheikh, Pathan honed his skills, especially his powerful hitting ability.
Yusuf Pathan has won the election from the Baharampur seat in West Bengal.
– Adhir Ranjan Chaudhary lost for the first time in 25 years. pic.twitter.com/9CiOtPV0ia
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 4, 2024
Pathan’s international debut came three years after Irfan’s, but he quickly established himself as a vital player for India in shorter formats. He was a member of the MS Dhoni-led team that won the 2011 ODI World Cup. However, his most memorable moments came in the IPL, where he captivated fans with a scintillating 37-ball century against Mumbai Indians in 2010 and played a key role in Rajasthan Royals’ title-winning campaign in 2008.
Featuring in all matches in 2008, he scored 435 runs at a strike rate of 179.01 and took eight wickets. Pathan joined KKR in 2011 and became a permanent member of the team for seven years. Although Pathan regrets not featuring in any Tests for India, he now has the opportunity to play a long game in the field of politics.
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