Danish Kaneria, the outspoken former Pakistan spinner, isn’t losing sleep over Bangladesh’s India boycott. The T20 World Cup, he insists, proceeds without a hitch, while Bangladesh stares down a troubled horizon in international cricket.
Recent atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh shocked the world, eroding goodwill. ‘Unprovoked attacks were tragic,’ Kaneria said, linking it to Mustafizur’s axing by KKR ahead of IPL 2026.
No directives came from BCCI or ICC against Bangladesh’s visit. Kaneria emphasized elite security protocols for all teams. Their withdrawal was fear-based, not evidence-based—Pakistan alone vouched for them at ICC.
Consequences mount: potential Indian boycott of Bangladesh, disrupted futures. ‘ICC compliance was key; now doors slam shut,’ he noted. World Cup integrity holds firm. Participation might have rehabbed their image, luring IPL bids.
Pakistan treading similar paths? ‘Self-sabotage. Slots go to performers like Scotland,’ Kaneria quipped. Up-and-comers relish the chance.
Pushing back on politicized cricket talk, he urged focus on the pitch: technique, rivalries like Kohli vs Azam, pacers’ duels. ‘Politics dilutes the sport’s essence.’
BBL uproar over Rizwan and Babar? Routine strategy. ‘IPL saw it with Tilak. Prioritize team when stars falter—Smith nailed it. No drama needed.’
Through Kaneria’s lens, the game endures, sidelining board squabbles for on-field glory.