Fact Check: Will BJP Field India Pacer Mohammad Shami In Lok Sabha Polls?

Kolkata: Mohammad Shami, one of India’s top performers in the 2023 ODI World Cup, has been out of cricket for over three months due to an injury.

Even as the 33-year-old pacer is recovering from an Achilles tendon surgery, there is a buzz that Shami may take the plunge in politics.

India Today TV reported that the BJP is contemplating fielding the star cricketer from Bengal in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. According to sources, BJP’s state leadership has reached out to Shami with a proposal.

Shami, who plays domestic cricket for Bengal, is yet to make up his mind.

PM Narendra Modi was among those who wished Shami a speedy recovery after the latter confirmed his surgery.

After India lost to Australia in the World Cup final on November 19 at Ahmedabad, PM Modi visited the dressing room to console the players and hugged him, praising his performance in the tournament.

Shami had also met Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had announced the construction of a stadium in Shami’s native village in Amroha.

BJP is desperate for a good outcome in West Bengal, and is looking for strong candidates in several seats.