KXIP's Cheteshwar Pujara takes time out from IPL 7 to cast vote

Kings XI Punjab opening batsman Cheteshwar Pujara took time out from his hectic Indian Premier League seventh edition schedule to cast his vote for the ongoing elections here today

Rajkot: Kings XI Punjab batsman Cheteshwar Pujara took time out from his hectic IPL schedule to cast his vote here today.

Pujara, who scored 10 in Punjab's five-wicket win against Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 28 - their last game of the UAE leg, flew back to his hometown to exercise his franchise in what is said to be a historic Lok Sabha election.

Cheteshwar Pujara shows off his 'inked' finger. Pic courtesy Pujara’s twitter account

Rajkot city and the state Election Commission had roped in Pujara, 26, as both its "icon" and "brand ambassador" for the parliamentary polls in the district. Rajkot District Collector Rajendra Kumar said he is proud that Pujara flew back home just to cast his vote and inspire others to vote.

The cricketer also tweeted an image of himself showing off his inked finger urging people to vote, "I've voted, I urge you all to cast your precious vote," he wrote on the micro-blogging site.

"It is everyone's duty to vote for our new government and I also urge young and old alike to spare their valuable time and go for voting," Pujara along with his wife told reporters after voting.

Rajkot district administration is hopeful that Pujara's appeal will motivate voters to come out in large numbers. The Saurashtra opener is expected to join his Punjab mates in Mumbai where the team is slated to take on Mumbai Indians on May 3. 

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