Bengaluru: Former Pakistan Test leg-spinner Danish Kaneria, who was ill-treated by his teammates for being a Hindu, has now sought Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and other countries’ help as his life is “not in good shape”.

On Thursday, former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, during a TV show, had revealed how his teammates had unfairly treated Kaneria during his playing days.

Also read: Shoaib Akhtar reveals how Danish Kaneria was ill-treated

Kaneria, only the second Hindu after Anil Dalpat to play for Pakistan, reacted to Akhtar’s claims and did admit that he indeed faced discrimination.

The 39-year-old Kaneria had played 61 Tests for Pakistan and took 261 wickets. He also featured in 18 ODIs and claimed 15 victims.

Kaneria took to the micro-blogging website Twitter to appeal to all including Pakistan PM Imran, who took his nation to 1992 World Cup title, to help me “come out of the mess”.

In 2012, the former leg-spinner was banned for life by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) over spot-fixing charges. In 2016, he had visited India for a religious tour. At the time, he had sought the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) help.

Here is Danish Kaneria’s full statement

“Today, I saw the TV interview of the legendary bowler Shoaib Akhtar. I personally thank him for telling the truth to the world. At the same time, I am thankful to all great players who supported me wholeheartedly as a cricketer. Also thankful to media, genuine cricket administrators, and citizens of Pakistan who supported me regardless of my religious affiliation.

“There were certain elements in the society who opposed. However, their opposition could not sustain against the people who loved me. I always remained positive in life and ignored such opposition.

“At the same, my life is not in good shape and I approached many individuals in Pakistan and around the world to resolve my issues. Yet, I have not received any help. Issues of many cricketers of Pakistan have been resolved though. I gave everything possible for Pakistan as a cricketer and I am very proud of it. And I in the hour of need I am positive that the people of Pakistan will help.

“I need support from all legendary players of Pakistan including Honourable Prime Minister Imran Khan, cricket administrators of Pakistan and other countries to get me out (of) the mess. Please come forward and help me out.

“I personally request all not to politicise the issue”.