.svg){kind=small}
.svg)
Danish Prabha Shankar Kaneria, born on 16 December 1980 in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan, is a former cricketer who represented the Pakistan national cricket team between 2000 and 2010. A right-arm leg spinner known for his ability to bowl the googly, Kaneria played 61 Test matches for Pakistan, securing 261 wickets at an average of 34.79. Notably, he was the second Hindu, after his cousin Anil Dalpat, and the seventh non-Muslim to represent Pakistan in international cricket. Despite his significant contributions to the sport, his career was marred by allegations of spot fixing, leading to a lifetime ban by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
Born to Prabhashankar bhai Laljibhai Kaneria and Babita Prabhashankar bhai Kaneria, Danish was affectionately nicknamed "Danny" and "Nani-Danny". He pursued his education at the Government Islamia College in Karachi. Kaneria's Hindu roots and Gujarati ethnicity are notable, especially considering the predominantly Muslim demographic of Pakistani cricketers. His ancestors, originally from Surat, had settled in Karachi over a century ago. Following in the footsteps of his cousin, former test wicket-keeper Anil Dalpat, Kaneria became the second Hindu to play for Pakistan.
Kaneria's cricketing journey began at the domestic level. He represented various teams, including the Pakistan Reserves, Habib Bank Limited cricket team, Karachi Dolphins, and Pakistan A cricket team. His first-class debut came in the 1998-99 season, representing the National Shipping Corporation against Habib Bank Limited. Over the years, he played 206 first-class matches, amassing a staggering 1,024 wickets at an average of 26.16. His economy rate was an impressive 2.98, with a strike rate of over 52. Throughout his first-class career, Kaneria achieved 71 five-wicket hauls and took ten or more wickets in a match on 12 occasions.
His introduction to international cricket was in November 2000, at the young age of 19. He made his debut in a Test match against England in Faisalabad. In the subsequent years, Kaneria established himself as a formidable leg-spinner, often being the go-to bowler for Pakistan in critical situations.
Danish Kaneria's ascent in international cricket was swift and impactful. Making his Test debut against England in Faisalabad in November 2000, he quickly established himself as a mainstay in the Pakistani bowling line-up. His height, combined with his ability to extract bounce and significant turn, made him a formidable opponent on any surface. Although his googly was frequently used, it was so well-disguised that the legendary Richie Benaud once considered it among the best he had ever seen.
However, Kaneria's journey wasn't without its challenges. Despite possessing the tools of a great leg-spinner, he often lacked the guile and presence that his predecessors, Abdul Qadir and Mushtaq Ahmed, exuded. This was further compounded by the absence of a consistent supporting cast of bowlers and, at times, even a competent wicketkeeper. Yet, his perseverance shone through, especially during the years following 2004. He delivered critical spells against teams like Sri Lanka, England, and the West Indies, and showcased lionhearted performances against cricketing giants Australia and India. However, as time progressed, his strike rate began to wane, hinting at a decline in his potency.
Throughout his international career, Danish Kaneria accumulated several noteworthy records and achievements:
Prolific Wicket-taker: Kaneria ended his career as Pakistan's highest wicket-taking spinner, with a total of 276 international wickets. In the Test format alone, he bagged 261 wickets in 61 matches, with an average of 34.79. His best bowling figures in an innings were 7/77, and in a match, they stood at 12/94.
First-class Dominance: Beyond the international arena, Kaneria was a force to be reckoned with in first-class cricket. He played 206 matches, taking an impressive 1,024 wickets at an average of 26.16. His economy rate in this format was a commendable 2.98, and he achieved the milestone of ten or more wickets in a match on 12 occasions.
Unique Distinction: Being only the second Hindu to represent Pakistan in international cricket, Kaneria's career was symbolic in more ways than one. His journey showcased the inclusivity of the sport, transcending religious and ethnic boundaries.
Critical Spells: Some of his most memorable performances came in the mid-2000s. Against Sri Lanka, England, and the West Indies, Kaneria often turned the tide in Pakistan's favour with his crafty leg-spin. His battles against top batsmen from Australia and India further solidified his reputation as a top-tier spinner.
Spot-fixing Controversy: Despite his on-field achievements, Kaneria's legacy was tainted by the spot-fixing scandal. He and Mervyn Westfield, both playing for Essex, were found guilty of underperforming in a 2009 Pro40 match against Durham. While Westfield pleaded guilty in January 2012, Kaneria faced the verdict from a disciplinary panel in June the same year, which effectively ended his professional cricketing career.
Kaneria's cricketing journey is a testament to both the highs and lows that professional athletes often face. From being celebrated as Pakistan's top spinner to facing a life ban, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragile nature of fame and success in the world of sports.
Danish Kaneria's illustrious cricketing journey was not without its share of controversies, the most prominent being the spot-fixing scandal that overshadowed his achievements on the field.
In 2009, while playing for Essex in a Pro40 match against Durham, Kaneria and his teammate Mervyn Westfield were implicated in a spot-fixing case. The allegations centred around the duo underperforming deliberately. Westfield, in January 2012, admitted to his role and pleaded guilty. However, the spotlight turned to Kaneria when, in June 2012, a disciplinary panel found him guilty of corruption related to the same match. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) subsequently handed him a life ban from playing any cricket under their jurisdiction.
The ban was a significant blow to Kaneria's career, effectively halting his participation in most international cricketing events. The controversy also cast a shadow over his previous achievements, leading many to question the integrity of his performances.
In a twist of events, in October 2018, Kaneria finally admitted his guilt in the spot-fixing case. He expressed remorse for his actions, stating that he could no longer "live a life with lies". This admission, while bringing a sense of closure to the controversy, also reaffirmed the life ban imposed on him.
Post the controversy, Kaneria's life took a turn away from the limelight of international cricket. While he remained involved in various cricket-related activities and commentary stints, his presence in the mainstream cricketing world diminished. The once-celebrated leg-spinner now became a cautionary tale for budding cricketers about the perils of unethical practices in the sport.
Legacy and Impact on Cricket
Despite the controversies, Danish Kaneria's impact on cricket, especially in Pakistan, is undeniable. His legacy is multifaceted, reflecting both his prowess as a cricketer and the lessons from his fall from grace.
Trailblazer for Minorities: As only the second Hindu to play for Pakistan, Kaneria broke religious and ethnic barriers in a predominantly Muslim cricketing nation. His success served as an inspiration for many young cricketers from minority backgrounds, showcasing that talent and dedication could overcome societal prejudices.
Master of the Googly: On the field, Kaneria's leg-spin was a thing of beauty. His googly, in particular, was a weapon that bamboozled many top-order batsmen. Richie Benaud's praise for Kaneria's googly as one of the best-disguised he had ever seen is a testament to his skill.
Record Holder: With 261 Test wickets, Kaneria remains one of Pakistan's top wicket-takers. His first-class record is even more impressive, with over 1,000 wickets to his name. These statistics, while remarkable, only scratch the surface of his contributions to the teams he played for.
A Cautionary Tale: Kaneria's involvement in the spot-fixing scandal and the subsequent life ban served as a stark reminder of the consequences of unethical practices in sports. His story is now often cited to educate young cricketers about the importance of integrity and the pitfalls of succumbing to temptations.
Continued Love for the Game: Even after the ban, Kaneria's passion for cricket remained undiminished. He ventured into commentary, analysis, and coaching, sharing his insights and experiences with the next generation of cricketers. Danish Kaneria's legacy in the world of cricket is a blend of exceptional talent, groundbreaking achievements, and lessons in integrity. While his career had its share of highs and lows, his story serves as a poignant chapter in the annals of cricket, reminding enthusiasts of the sport's glorious unpredictability both on and off the field.
Danish Kaneria's journey in the world of cricket is a tale of contrasts. From being a beacon of hope for minority cricketers in Pakistan to facing the ignominy of a life ban, his story encapsulates the highs and lows that the sport can bring. His on-field achievements, marked by his mastery of leg-spin, are a testament to his undeniable talent. Yet, his off-field controversies serve as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity in sports. While his legacy may be tinged with shades of grey, Kaneria's impact on cricket, both as a cautionary tale and an inspiration, remains indelible.
FAQs
How many Test wickets did Danish Kaneria take?
Kaneria took 261 wickets in Test cricket.
Why was Danish Kaneria banned from cricket?
He was banned for life by the ECB due to his involvement in a spot-fixing scandal in 2009.
When did Danish Kaneria make his Test debut for Pakistan?
He made his Test debut against England in Faisalabad on November 29, 2000.
Is Danish Kaneria the highest wicket-taking spinner for Pakistan?
Yes, Kaneria ended his career as Pakistan's highest wicket-taking spinner.
Did Danish Kaneria admit to his involvement in the spot-fixing scandal?
Yes, in October 2018, Kaneria admitted his guilt in the spot-fixing case.
