Navjot Singh Sidhu, former cricketer and politician, is stepping into the entertainment spotlight once again as a judge on India’s Got Talent Season 11.

Joining him on the panel will be Malaika Arora and singer Shaan, promising a mix of glamour, music and wisdom for the new season.

Sidhu, known for his flamboyant commentary and larger-than-life personality, revealed how his journey in cricket began with a deeply personal sacrifice.

 “I had cleared the Indian Military Academy exam and wanted to join the Army. But my father stopped me and said, ‘Cricket is your future.’ I chose cricket only to fulfil his dream,” he recalled.

The cricketer-turned-judge also spoke about the struggles he faced at the start of his sporting career. 

After being labelled the “Stroke-less Wonder” and dropped from the national team, Sidhu admitted he was determined to prove his critics wrong. 

“I made up my mind that I will not let this failure define me. I practised daily for hours, and when the 1987 World Cup came, I proved myself with five consecutive fifties,” he said.

Now, decades later, Sidhu is bringing that same resilience and grit to the judging panel. 

With his trademark humour and motivational spirit, he hopes to inspire contestants to rise above challenges and shine on stage.