Monty Panesar withdraws from General Elections one week after joining Workers Party

Monty Panesar. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images for BGC)

Former England cricketer Monty Panesar ended his political career one week after joining the Workers Party. He joined hands with George Galloway, the leader of the party and was about to participate in Britain’s General Elections, but after a series of challenging media interviews, the former player decided to withdraw.

The 42-year-old took to social media to announce his decision. Panesar mentioned that he needs more time to listen, learn and identify his political home for the betterment of the country. He added that he needs time to become a mature politician and will prepare himself better to deliver better the next time.

“I’m a proud Brit who has had the honour to represent my country at the highest level of cricket. I now want to do my bit to help others but I recognise I am at the beginning of my journey and still learning about how politics can help people,” Panesar wrote on X.

“So today I am withdrawing as a General Election candidate for The Workers Party. I realise I need more time to listen, learn and find my political home, one that aligns with my personal and political values. I wish The Workers Party all the best but look forward to taking some time to mature and find my political feet so I am well prepared to deliver my very best when I next run up to the political wicket,” he added.

Panesar previously revealed his intention to become the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Writing for The Telegraph, Panesar stated that he wanted to be the voice of the workers of the country. However, soon after that, he faced multiple media interviews, which wasn’t easy for the former cricketer. Speaking to Times Radio, he struggled to pick a side in Britain’s membership of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization).

In the interview, he mentioned that NATO’s role was related to immigration policy, which is related to British membership. He faced a lot of criticism following the statement and, as a result, the ex left-arm spinner decided to step down.