Gautam Gambhir wants to quit politics

Bharatiya Janata Party MP Gautam Gambhir has announced his decision to step away from active politics. The decision to quit politics comes amid reports that he may not get ticket for the upcoming 2024 polls.

The former cricketer, who represented East Delhi, took to Twitter to share the news with his followers and supporters. He expressed his desire to focus on his cricket commitments, citing the need to redirect his attention to the sport he passionately played before entering politics.

"I have requested Hon'ble Party President JP Nadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon'ble PM Narendra Modi for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind," Mr Gambhir wrote.

Gambhir's decision comes just days ahead of his return with KKR as their new mentor. The former India opener will be working closely with head coach Chandrakant Pandit.

Gambhir captained the Kolkata-based franchise from 2011-17 and led them to the IPL titles in 2012 and 2014. The announcement of Gambhir's return to KKR was made official on November 21, 2023. The former India opener also worked as the mentor for Lucknow Super Giants during the 2022 and 23 seasons.