Gautam Gambhir speaks about joining BJP and contesting Lok Sabha elections

What's the story?

The former Indian opener, Gautam Gambhir is arguably one of the successful cricketers in the world. There were rumours that he was all set to join BJP and that was further fuelled when he suddenly announced his retirement. But, the veteran has made it clear that he has no idea of entering politics.

The background

He was known for his match-winning knock in the finals of 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 World Cup. He also played a match-saving knock for his team when he scored 137 against New Zealand in Napier.

The veteran cricketer smashed 75 runs to help his team to beat their arch-rivals Pakistan in the finals of 2007 T20 World Cup which was held in South Africa. In the finals of the 2011 World Cup in Mumbai, India was struggling to chase 275 against Sri Lanka as they lost both their openers. But, it was Gambhir who built an important partnership with Kohli and Dhoni.

Gambhir's 97 and Dhoni's unbeaten 91 helped India to clinch the World Cup after 28 years. He shattered a number of records when he was in prime form. But, the Delhi-born batsman was ignored by the selectors because of his poor form. His last match for his country was against England in 2016.

The heart of the matter

The rumours started when the former opener targeted the politicians in the social media. But, Gautam Gambhir has said that he has no idea of entering politics. In a recent interview with Mumbai Mirror when they asked whether he would join BJP and contest for a Lok Sabha seat, Gambhir said, "It is all a rumour. I don't know who started it."

He also opened about 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 World Cup. "Both are special moments of my playing life. In 2007 when I was not picked for the 50-over World Cup, I thought I would never get to play any World Cup or a marquee tournament. I thought of retirement at that moment. But then look what Good gave me - not one but two World Cup titles," the World Cup-winning star revealed.

What's next?

Gautam Gambhir, who retired from all forms of the game, is batting on 101 in his final game against Andhra in Delhi. He would look to continue his job as a commentator as he has been roped into the elite panel of commentators for India's tour of Australia.