Speculation over Azharuddin’s foray into politics

Former Indian skipper Mohammed Azharuddin’s visit to JD (S) supremo and former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda’s residence in Bangalore on Monday has triggerred speculation over the former cricketer’s entry into politics.

Accompanied by former Indian pacer Dodda Ganesh, who has already announced his decision to join the JD (S), Azharuddin met Gowda at the latter’s residence and held closed door talks.

Dodda Ganesh, who has played four Tests and a single one-day international during 1996-97 tour of South Africa, had announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, ahead of making public his decision to join the JD (S).

JD (S) spokesperson Y S V Datta told reporters in Bangalore that Dodda Ganesh will be formally admitted into the party fold at a function in Bangalore on Wednesday, where Azharuddin will be a special invitee.

Though its is not immediately known what transpired between the former Indian cricketer and JD (S) supremo, Dodda Ganesh told reporters that Azharuddin was supporting his entry into the JD (S). “I have no idea about Azharuddin’s political interests”, Dodda Ganesh said on a cautious note.