Inzamam backs banned Kaneria

Islamabad: Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul Haq has backed banned leg-spinner Danish Kaneria, saying that he had never seen Kaneria acting in any way that would cast doubts over his integrity, during his career.

According to the Daily Times, Inzamam`s statement has come after another former skipper Rashid Latif urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to reopen or review Kaneria`s case with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). In a signed statement, Inzamam, who played 120 Tests and 378 one-days, said that as a professional and a friend, he has never known Kaneria to be involved in any matters which would cast doubts over his integrity, adding that the bowler always gave his 100 percent while playing for Pakistan. According to Inzamam, he has witnessed Kaneria turning in match winning performances a number of times, adding that he has known Kaneria as a man of integrity and passionate about cricket. Inzamam further said that Kaneria`s has a great love for cricket and his commitment to the sport has never faltered, adding that he has been a successful player and is recognised across the world as one of the best spin bowlers. Kaneria, who played most of his 61 Tests under Inzamam`s captaincy, was given a life ban by a disciplinary committee of the ECB, which also dismissed another appeal against the ban, although the final appeal was endorsed by the PCB in a commercial court of the United Kingdom. Kaneria has maintained his innocence in the case and claims that he did not get justice from the ECB committee, the report added. ANI