A former Pakistan spinner faced significant discrimination from his teammates, leading to a shortened career. The Hindu cricketer was subjected to constant harassment, prompting then-President Pervez Musharraf to intervene. Musharraf issued an ultimatum to the Pakistan cricket team, warning them not to mistreat Danish Kaneria. This revelation came during an interview with Kaneria himself.
During a podcast, Danish Kaneria, who began his international cricket career in 2000 against England, disclosed the behavior of his teammates. He stated that former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi frequently harassed him, mocking his religion and making controversial remarks, which caused him considerable distress. Kaneria mentioned that his teammates did not want him to play in the team.
Kaneria explained that the then-President summoned all the players and warned that anyone who harassed him would face consequences. Kaneria believed that his teammates did not want him to perform well because they thought he would surpass many records if he played more matches, as he was already the fourth-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket.
Kaneria played for Pakistan for 10 years, taking 261 wickets in 112 innings of 61 Test matches. He is the first spinner from Pakistan to take the most wickets in Test cricket, and fourth overall. He took 15 wickets in 18 ODIs as well.
