Indian cricketer Rinku Singh’s engagement to Samajwadi Party MP Priya Saroj in Lucknow has sparked interest, highlighting the intersection of cricket and politics in India. Notable political figures such as Akhilesh Yadav, Shivpal Yadav, and Jaya Bachchan attended the ceremony. This event, however, is not an isolated incident. Several other Indian cricketers, including Ravindra Jadeja, Navjot Singh Sidhu, and Kirti Azad, have also been linked to women with significant political careers.
Rivaba Jadeja, wife of Ravindra Jadeja, is now a prominent figure in politics, known as ‘Madam MLA.’ She was elected as an MLA from Jamnagar North, representing the BJP. Jadeja has actively participated in her political campaigns. Rivaba is an engineer by profession, having graduated from Gujarat Technological University in Ahmedabad.
Navjot Kaur Sidhu, the wife of Navjot Singh Sidhu, transitioned to politics following her husband’s career in cricket and television. She served as an MLA from Punjab and has frequently been the focus of media attention. Before her political career, she was a doctor.
Poonam Azad, wife of Kirti Azad, also had an active role in politics. Kirti Azad, a member of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, later became an MP for the BJP. Poonam Azad was associated with the Aam Aadmi Party before joining the BJP. She passed away in 2024.