Former Pakistani cricketer Danish Kaneria has clarified that he has no immediate plans to seek Indian citizenship, dismissing rumours that his positive remarks about India were motivated by such intentions.
Kaneria, a Hindu who represented Pakistan from 2000 to 2010, said that despite facing “deep discrimination” from Pakistani authorities and the cricket board, Pakistan remains his “janmabhoomi” (birthplace). However, he described India, the land of his ancestors, as his “matrubhumi” (homeland) and praised its cultural and spiritual significance.
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“I have seen questions from many people asking why I comment on India’s internal matters or why I do not speak about Pakistan. Some even allege that I do this for Indian citizenship. I want to set the record straight,” Kaneria wrote in a detailed post on X.
While he is keeping his options open regarding citizenship under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), Kaneria insisted that his words are guided by dharma and a desire to expose anti-national elements, not personal gain. He also praised the RSS on its 100th anniversary for its community work and youth empowerment.
The 44-year-old former leg-spinner, who has 261 Test wickets, concluded his post with a “Jai Shree Ram” remark, reaffirming his support for India’s ethos.
