Cricketer Murali Kartik bats for vegetarianism

Indian cricketer Murali Kartik has pledged his support for vegetarianism and featured in an advertisement of an animal rights group.

In the advertisement for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, the left-arm-spinner posed with a costumed rooster and chick alongside a sign that read, 'Join the Vegetarian Team'.

"I am proud to say that my vegetarian diet provides me with all the energy and stamina I need as an athlete. Having born a vegetarian and then to know that vegetarian diet is better for animals and the environment, my conscience is in good health as well," Kartik stated.

The 34-year-old joins the list of celebrities including Lara Dutta, Shahid Kapoor, R Madhavan, John Abraham, Celina Jaitley, Pamela Anderson, Sir Paul McCartney, among others, who have teamed up with PETA to promote a healthy and compassionate vegetarian diet.

The advertisement, to be released later this year, has been shot by ace photographer Vickky Idnaani.