Ahead of the crucial West Bengal assembly polls, Indian footballer Syed Rahim Nabi on Sunday joined the state's ruling Trinamool Congress.
Nabi was handed over the party flag by Trinamool secretary general Partha Chatterjee in the presence of the party's Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee, who is Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's nephew.
Known for his versatility on the field, Nabi has essayed the roles of a defender, midfielder as well as a striker. He said he is joining politics for public welfare.
"I want to work for the people; let us see what I can do," Nabi told media persons after his induction in the Trinamool.
Having played for all three prominent city clubs -- Mohammedan Sporting, East Bengal and Mohun Bagan -- Nabi was also a regular on the national team from 2004 to 2013.