The batting legend, who was born a Christian, converted to Islam in 2005
27 December, 2019
PHOTO: AFP
Former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Yousuf has rubbished speedster Shoaib Akhtar’s claim of religious discrimination in the Pakistan team during their playing days.
Akhtar had claimed, during a talk show, that his fellow teammate and leg-spinner Danish Kaneria was discriminated in the Men in Green’s dressing room because of his religion.
The batting legend took to his Twitter account to condemn the aforementioned allegations.
“I condemn the comments made about discrimination regarding players from the minority in the Pakistan Team. I have been a member of the team & I’ve always had a lot of love & support from the team, the management & the fans! Pakistan Zindabad,” tweeted Yousaf.
I condemn the comments made about discrimination regarding players from the minority in the Pakistan Team. I have been a member of the team & I’ve always had a lot of love & support from the team, the management & the fans! Pakistan Zindabad
— Mohammad Yousaf (@yousaf1788) December 27, 2019
Yousaf, who was born a Christian, converted to Islam in 2005 after being a regular at preaching sessions of Tablighi Jamaat.
ALSO READ: Kaneria responds to allegations of religious discrimination
However, Kaneria confirmed the allegations of religious discrimination while talking to Indian media.
"He [Akhtar] told the truth. I'll reveal names of players who didn't like to talk to me as I was a Hindu. Didn't have courage to speak on it, but now I will," Kaneria said while talking to Times Now.
Kaneria, who was banned from cricket in 2012 for fixing allegations, had reportedly also approched the BCCI for help in fighting his case to clear his name a few years ago.
Kaneria played 61 Test matches for Pakistan and took 261 wickets at an average of 34.79.
