Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has addressed speculation surrounding his potential Indian citizenship, clarifying that he currently has no intention of applying. While acknowledging Pakistan as his birthplace, Kaneria described India—the land of his ancestors—as his motherland, likening it to a temple. He added that anyone in a situation similar to his could consider applying under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), a law designed to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who have faced religious persecution.
Kaneria, the second Hindu cricketer to represent Pakistan after his relative Anil Dalpat, played 61 Tests and 18 ODIs for Pakistan between 2000 and 2010. He is the fourth-highest wicket-taker for Pakistan in Test cricket and holds the record for the most wickets by a spin bowler in Tests for the country. His contributions established him as one of Pakistan cricket’s leading spin bowlers during his decade-long international career.
India my matrubhumi: Ex-Pak cricketer Danish Kaneria's big claim on citizenship
Danish Kaneria, a Hindu, rejected speculation that his recent positive remarks on India's internal affairs were driven by a motive to seek Indian citizenship.
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In 2010, Kaneria faced spot-fixing allegations, prompting the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to impose a lifetime ban, effectively ending his international career. Throughout his career, he repeatedly spoke out about facing religious discrimination and pressure to convert from Pakistani cricket authorities and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), highlighting the challenges he endured as a minority player in the national team.