Why Pakistan's Cricket Board Doesn't Give a Second Chance to Hindu Cricketer Danesh Kaneria Like They Did for Salman Butt and Mohammad Aamir

Often, questions arise regarding the criteria for selecting players in any sport, and cricket is no exception. While some might argue that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should give a second chance to certain players, it is crucial to examine the context and reasons behind such decisions. This article aims to clarify some misconceptions and provide a fair assessment.

The Case of Danesh Kaneria

Firstly, it is important to correct the record to state that Danesh Kaneria, who has been referred to as Hindu, is in fact a Muslim. This clarifies that the basis for any exclusion cannot be religious. Secondly, the mention of Salman Butt and Mohammad Aamir being given chances by the PCB is inaccurate. Salman Butt and Mohammad Aamir were initially dealt with by the International Cricket Council (ICC), not solely by the PCB. Moreover, their cases were distinct due to various factors including their age at the time of the incident.

Players and Their Current Status

It is crucial to recognize that cricket teams often have a dynamic roster, and the PCB evaluates players based on their current performance and potential. Danesh Kaneria, who is described as past his prime, is assessed alongside other talented and younger players who are considered better suited for the current team. This selection process is typical in any professional sport.

Religious and Ethical Considerations

It is important to maintain a separation of religion and sport. While discrimination based on religion, ethnicity, or other personal factors is unacceptable, it is equally important to note that players are evaluated based on their performance, character, and adherence to the sport's ethical standards. In a country like Pakistan, where disparities exist across various demographics, cricket teams prioritize performance and integrity over such factors.

The Cases of Muhammad Asif and Salman Butt

Similarly, the cases of Muhammad Asif and Salman Butt highlight the nature of the controversies surrounding their careers. Muhammad Asif, once one of the best bowlers in the team, is no longer considered due to the availability of better and younger alternatives. Salman Butt, on the other hand, remains ineligible for the national team due to his involvement in spot-fixing, a serious breach of cricket's integrity. Both players were banned by the ICC and the PCB due to their actions and are not under consideration for selection.

Spot Fixing and Lifelong Bans

It is also important to understand the serious implications of spot-fixing. For instance, Mohammad Aamir was banned by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for 'spot fixing' in 2012. He was named as the instigator of an illegal/corrupt approach, leading to a lifelong ban from professional cricket. The PCB agreed to reciprocate this ban, and until Aamir admits guilt or provides clear evidence to exonerate himself, he remains ineligible to play in areas where the ECB has jurisdiction. Such bans are not based on religious or ethnic considerations but on the critical importance of maintaining the sport's integrity.

Conclusion: The decision to give or not give a second chance is a complex one, balancing past performance, current talent, and adherence to sport's ethical standards. While it is understandable to question the selection processes, it is essential to rely on factual information and the broader context of the sport's integrity.