Kaneria issue to be discussed by PCB, ECB

Leg-spinner might be called in for questioning in England.

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is looking to resolve Danish Kaneria’s case in consultation with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) after the leg-spinner was named as a go-between in Mervyn Westfield’s spot-fixing case.

Kaneria, who has been seeking clearance from the PCB, was named during the trial in the London court that handed a four-month jail sentence to Westfield. While Kaneria was also questioned by Essex Police, the leg-spinner was released without charges. However, the PCB, adopting a strict attitude after three Pakistan cricketers were found guilty of spot-fixing offences, has sidelined the country’s highest wicket-taking spinner in Tests.

‘Investigation tapes are a must’

An official close to the integrity committee, which reviewed Kaneria’s case, said the developments were being closely followed.

“The committee is reviewing Westfield’s sentencing quotes,” the official told The Express Tribune. “The process has slowed down because the board is busy in looking at other core issues but the committee will summon the bowler soon.”

Despite being repeatedly asked by the integrity committee, Kaneria has failed to provide copies of tapes of the Essex Police interview, which prompted the PCB to block his clearance. Kaneria had also filed a petition in the Sindh High Court against the PCB’s sanction.

ECB may probe Kaneria

The official added that the ECB may also consider questioning Kaneria.

“They are yet to decide whether to probe the leg spinner,” said the official before adding that the PCB was looking for a joint conclusion on the case with the ECB.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 29^th, 2012.