Ex-football aces take a shot at poll politics

PANAJI: In Goa’s playground of politics, the March 3 polls will be the match of the year. Contesting in the elections are top sportsmen such as goalkeeper Avertano Furtado and former midfielder Benjamin D’Silva: two among a number of sportspersons trying their hand in politics. Sports and politics are intertwined in the coastal state so it’s no surprise that these newcomers will take on political heavyweights already associated with sports bodies.

Former Salgaocar and MRF goalkeeper Avertano Furtado is contesting as an Independent with BJP support and challenges strongman Churchill Alemao, the football biggie thanks to his Churchill Brothers Sports Club.

Keeping Furtado company is Benjamin D’Silva , also an Independent, contesting from Velim. The midfielder dons the colours for Salcete Football Club and is now an executive committee member of the Goa Football Association.

Then there is Glenn Souza Ticlo, BJP’s Catholic face in Aldona. He may be known as a successful businessman, but in his teens Ticlo was a talented footballer who represented the state at the junior nationals. In Canacona , the main candidates are rooted in sports. Sitting BJP MLA Ramesh Tawadkar was a physical education teacher at Shradanand Vidyalaya in Poinguinim before he joined politics. He was also good at kabaddi, while his Congress rival, Isidore Fernandes, represented the state at the Santosh Trophy and was an accomplished footballer .

Goa’s assembly is a sports field alright. If CM Digambar Kamat’s exploits in badminton are still fresh in memory, home minister Ravi Naik was among Goa’s better volleyball spikers.

Transport minister Ramkrishna Dhavlikar alias Sudin still owns the bat with which he cut rival bowlers to size while turning up for Bandora Youth Club. He still flaunts his batting skills during local matches.