Former Indian cricketer Dodda Ganesh will make his debut in politics by joining the Janata Dal (Secular) party on Wednesday.

The Karnataka medium pacer, who had a short stint in both Tests and One Day Internationals, will start his political career in the presence of former prime minister and JD(S) chief H D Deve Gowda.

According to party sources, Ganesh's entry was cleared after he met Gowda at his residence along with former Indian skipper Mohammad Azharuddin on Monday.

Party sources denied reports that Mohammed Azharuddin, who had to make an ignominious exit for his alleged involvement in cricket betting, was joining the party.

However, Azharuddin is likely to be present at the function and express his moral support to the party, the sources said.