Published: Dec 24, 2013, 11:22 AM (IST)
Edited: Dec 24, 2013, 11:23 AM (IST)
Karachi: Dec 24, 2013
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has directed concerned authorities to provide necessary financial assistance to former Pakistan captain and legendary batsman Hanif Mohammad, who rued the lack of government support in his fight against cancer.
Hanif, who underwent a complicated operation and stayed in London this year for the treatment of liver cancer, had rued on his 79th birthday celebrated last week, that he had to take loans to finance his expensive treatment.
Hanif had complained that he was facing loans of around seven million rupees spent on his treatment.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) didn’t bother to inquire from me about how I was managing things and this is very painful,” Hanif had told reporters in Karachi on his birthday.
“I have come to the conclusion that there is no respect or care for sportsmen once he retires in our country and this is very painful for me,” he had said.
But on Monday Hanif said he had got a call informing him that the Prime Minister had directed PCB, Pakistan Sports Board and other concerned authorities to look into his matter.
“I have been assured now that the PM has directed that I be provided financial assistance,” Hanif said.
“I am happy that our Prime Minister took out time from his busy schedule to look at my case,” he added.
Hanif had also complained that until now the PCB had never tried to honor him for his triple test hundred against the West Indies despite the passing of so many years.
Nawaz Sharif is known to be a avid cricket fan and has played the sport himself.
