Kumar Sangakkara denies pledging support for any political parties

Former Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara took a jibe on  social media memes claiming his support for certain political parties in poll-bound country. Sangakkara took to Twitter to clarify his support regarding any political party in upcoming presidential elections and said that if social media memes are to be believed, he has come out in support of every political party and candidate.

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Name used to influence elections

This is t first time when Sagakkara’a name has been used on social media to influence elections. Last year, during local elections, Sangakkara said he was disappointed to learn that his comment on local elections was being used by “unscrupulous elements” to establish that he supports a certain political party.

When Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, also a former cricketer, was being sworn in for highest post, speculations were rife that Kumar Sangakkara could be next presidential candidate for Sri Lanka. He denied rumours in a Facebook post and said that he will never harbour any ambitions for political office.

“I would like to put to rest speculation and rumour once and for all, confirming that I do t harbour any ambitions for political office. I never have, and, with ermous certainty, I can say I never will,” said Sangakkara. 

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Sri Lankan cricketers in politics

World cup winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga is a Cabinet Minister in current government while former skipper Sanath Jayasuriya served as a Deputy Minister. Sangakkara, who became first n-British person to take charge as President of prestigious Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), has been vocal on social issues which often amplifies rumours of his political ambition.

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