Hyderabad: Renowned former cricket captain Mohammed Azharuddin, celebrated for his stylish cricketing feats and agile fielding, is now venturing into the political realm in Telangana. He has been nominated as the Congress candidate from Jubilee Hills and is eager to make a substantial impact in this new arena, much like he did on the cricket field. His political journey began in 2009 when he won the Moradabad Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh. After an unsuccessful attempt to secure the Tonk-Sawai Madhopur constituency in Rajasthan in 2014, Azharuddin is now returning to the political fold with a fresh challenge - contesting the Jubilee Hills seat, currently held by the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS). Azharuddin has expressed his deep desire to serve the people of his home state, Telangana. He is grateful to the Congress high command for granting him the opportunity to contest in his home state. Azharuddin firmly believes that the winds of change are blowing in favor of the Congress in Telangana, and he is optimistic about the party's prospects. He has emphasized the value of loyalty, both to the bank that offered him employment before he made his mark in cricket and to the Congress, which paved the way for his entry into politics. The seasoned cricketer highlighted the pressing need for development, especially in areas that have been neglected, and drew attention to the widening wealth gap in the state. He has pledged to champion the cause of marginalized communities and is committed to delivering on the Congress party's six guarantees aimed at fostering growth and development in Telangana. Azharuddin also underscored the importance of being assertive in politics and campaigning aggressively, drawing parallels with the game of cricket. He is excited about representing his home state and is ready to win the hearts of the people on this new "pitch." Azharuddin's main opponent in the Jubilee Hills constituency is the current MLA from the BRS, Gopinath Maganti. The Congress is determined to challenge the BRS government in the state. The state is gearing up for voting across 119 assembly seats on November 30, with the results set to be announced on December 3. Delhi and Mumbai on High Alert Following Serial Blasts in Kerala Kerala CM Joins Anti-Israel Protest amidst 3 Bomb Blasts in state DCW Takes Swift Action Against Obscene Depictions of Hindu Goddesses