Rahul Gandhi is a self-confessed football fan, with just a fleeting interest in cricket. But he chose a cricket match to bond with leaders of the Congress’ youth wings.
The Youth Congress and NSUI leader fields for 45 minutes to encourage team spirit in party units
NEW DELHI: Rahul Gandhi is a self-confessed football fan, with just a fleeting interest in cricket. But he chose a cricket match to bond with leaders of the Congress’ youth wings – Youth Congress and NSUI – on Wednesday.
After two days of intense closed-door brainstorming with leaders of the two frontal organisations, Rahul donned cricket flannels as he turned out to field for the Youth Congress against NSUI at National Stadium.
Rahul was on the field for about 45 minutes and his participation in the match was limited to fielding, most of the time in the slips.
He, however, showed glimpses of his athleticism as he ran some distance to retrieve the ball before thudding in his return into the wicketkeeper’s gloves. Even his brief participation had the Youth Congress and NSUI leaders gushing.
“He behaved like one of us. He does not have any of the starry airs that some of our senior leaders have,” said one of the players.
The exercise though was less about cricket and more about mingling “with the boys and bonding”.
Rahul took charge of the two frontal organisations a month ago and has set about putting them in order.
For the last two days, he was closeted with national office-bearers and state presidents of the organisations to get a feedback about their status.
Rahul, a participant said, spent two full days at Teen Murti Bhavan, from 10 am to 6 pm, listening patiently, mingling with the leaders and encouraging them to speak freely.
True to style, he insisted on short, focused speeches and on more than one occasion, he cut short speakers seeking to praise him. His own intervention was short and succinct.
“Don’t expect miracles. A lot needs to be done and I have time only for those who are willing to work whole-heartedly. There is no place for those who don’t have the stomach for it,” he said.
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