• Kedar Jadhav has joined BJP and stepped into the Indian politics.

  • As a cricketer, Jadhav represented India in 73 ODIs and scored 1,389 runs at a commendable average of 42.09.

Kedar Jadhav takes political route by joining BJP; fans react
Fans go wild as Kedar Jadhav takes political route joining BJP (Image source: X)

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Former Indian cricketer Kedar Jadhav is set to begin an exciting new chapter in his life—not with bat and ball, but in the world of politics.

On Tuesday, at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s headquarters in Mumbai, the 40-year-old was inducted into BJP during a ceremony attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and the state president Chandrashekhar Bawankule.

With a cricketing career that has spanned over a decade and witnessed several memorable performances, Jadhav now prepares to carry forward his legacy in a different arena. His entry into politics is not just the story of a cricketer choosing public service—it is the tale of transformation, resilience and reinvention.

Kedar Jadhav’s cricketing journey

Born on March 26, 1985, in Pune, Maharashtra, Jadhav rose through the ranks of Indian cricket with grit and consistency. A solid middle-order batter, Jadhav made his ODI debut for India in 2014 against Sri Lanka and represented the national side in 73 ODIs, scoring 1,389 runs at a commendable average of 42.09. His part-time off-spin bowling, which fetched him 27 wickets, proved crucial on numerous occasions, showcasing his utility as an all-rounder.

His most iconic moment in Indian cricket came in the 2017 ODI against England in Pune. In what turned out to be a high-voltage run chase, India found themselves struggling at 63 for four. Enter Jadhav, who teamed up with Virat Kohli to forge a 200-run partnership, playing a blistering knock of 120 off just 76 balls. His performance not only led India to a thrilling victory but also cemented his reputation as a dependable and fearless match-winner.

Domestically, Jadhav was the backbone of the Maharashtra side. His exploits in the 2013-14 Ranji Trophy season—where he scored 1223 runs at an average of 87.35, including six centuries—paved the way for his national call-up. In the IPL, he was a familiar face, turning out for multiple franchises such as Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and the now-defunct Kochi Tuskers Kerala.

On June 3, 2024, Jadhav officially retired from all forms of cricket, closing a remarkable 17-year career that left an indelible mark on Indian cricket.

Jadhav’s next chapter

Jadhav’s transition from sports to politics might come as a surprise to some, but it reflects a growing trend of Indian athletes stepping into the political limelight. Known for his calm demeanor, quick thinking, and team spirit—traits honed on the cricket field—Jadhav could bring a refreshing perspective to the political landscape.

Though his specific role within the party is yet to be revealed, reports suggest that Jadhav may be tasked with strengthening the BJP’s outreach in Maharashtra, especially among the youth and sports communities. With upcoming elections in the state and the BJP’s emphasis on attracting popular figures, Jadhav’s inclusion could be a strategic move aimed at enhancing the party’s public appeal.

Also READ: BCCI announces Team India’s home schedule post IPL 2025

Here’s how fans reacted to Kedar Jadhav joining BJP:

Also READ: List of Indian players to complete 8,000 runs in T20 cricket ft. Suryakumar Yadav

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.