Article Today, Hyderabad:
Former Indian cricket captain Mohammad Azharuddin is set to be sworn in as a minister in the Telangana cabinet on Friday in the presence of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy at Raj Bhavan. Known for his elegant batting and leadership on the cricket field, Azharuddin’s entry into the state cabinet brings a touch of sporting glamour to Telangana politics. His induction is seen as part of the Congress government’s strategy to strengthen minority representation in the cabinet.
Political Strategy Behind the Move
The decision to include Azharuddin in the ministry is being viewed as a calculated political move by the Congress. The party is preparing for the upcoming by-election in the Jubilee Hills Assembly constituency, where Azharuddin had earlier contested unsuccessfully. Given the large presence of Muslim minority voters in the constituency, the Congress leadership is keen to consolidate their support through this appointment. Meanwhile, both the BJP and the BRS have criticised the move, alleging that it violates the Model Code of Conduct and have lodged complaints with the Election Commission.
From the Pitch to the Political Arena
Azharuddin made his international debut in 1984, scoring three consecutive centuries in his first three Test matches — a rare feat in world cricket. Over his career, he played 99 Tests and 334 One Day Internationals, serving as captain for several years. His career, however, was marred by match-fixing allegations that led to a life ban, which was later overturned by the courts in 2012. Undeterred, Azharuddin entered politics and won the 2009 Lok Sabha elections from Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh. In 2018, he was appointed Working President of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee. His current induction marks a significant return to prominence in state politics.
Glamour in Family Ties
Beyond cricket and politics, Azharuddin’s personal life has often drawn public attention. His son, Asaduddin, married Anam Mirza, sister of Indian tennis icon Sania Mirza, in 2019. The alliance linked two prominent sporting families, further elevating Azharuddin’s public profile. Sania Mirza’s popularity, observers believe, may also contribute indirectly to his political visibility. In earlier years, Azharuddin was married to former Bollywood actress Sangeeta Bijlani, a union that later ended in divorce.
A Symbolic Induction
Azharuddin’s appointment is not only a political signal to minority communities but also a symbolic blend of sports and public service. As he prepares to take oath, political observers see his inclusion as an attempt by the Congress to project inclusivity and aspirational appeal among younger and urban voters. Whether this strategy yields electoral dividends will depend on how effectively Azharuddin transitions from the cricket field to the demanding turf of governance.
