BJP may nominate star cricketer Shami to contest LS polls

According to a report by India Today, the BJP is considering nominating Indian cricket star Mohammed Shami from West Bengal for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Shami, who represents Bengal in the Ranji Trophy and continues to participate in the state's domestic cricket, has been approached by the BJP with the proposal to contest the election. However, Shami has yet to confirm his decision.

The report also suggests that the BJP views Shami as a potential candidate who could bolster the party's chances of success in minority-dominated constituencies in Bengal.

If Shami agrees to the proposal, he may contest from the Basirhat Lok Sabha constituency, which has recently garnered attention due to violence in Sandeshkhali village.

Currently, the 33-year-old cricketer is on hiatus from international matches as he recuperates from a recent surgery.

Shami has been sidelined since India's ODI World Cup 2023 campaign, during which he played a crucial role in helping the team reach the final by taking 24 wickets in seven matches.