FORMER England cricket star Monty Panesar has withdrawn as a candidate for George Galloway’s political party just eight days after announcing he was standing.
He appeared with the Workers Party of Britain leader at Westminster in April, arguing for a wealth tax and curbs on the foreign ownership of sports teams.
Monty was set to stand in Labour-held Ealing Southall, West London.
But posting on X, he said: “So today I am withdrawing as a General Election candidate for The Workers Party.
“I realise I need more time to listen, learn and find my political home, one that aligns with my personal and political values.
“I wish The Workers Party all the best but look forward to taking some time to mature and find my political feet so I am well prepared to deliver my very best when I next run up to the political wicket.”
Mr Galloway said he was in talks with three Labour MPs and a peer about defecting.
“Talks were going swimmingly, then not, then back on again,” he told the PA news agency.
“These things take time.
“I’m hoping to land them, I’m an experienced fisherman.
“I’m hoping to land them on the riverbank in good time.”
