t-size: 11pt”>It's a shame, because the sudden passion for cricket in Afghanistan has been a heart-warming story in many ways, and did seem like a possible entry point for a more liberal less strictly Islamic way of life. Sport and Islamic fundamentalism, after all, don't really go together. Tunku Varadarajan on cricket in Pakistan:
Cricket is a potent secular force in Pakistan, a secular lesson. It teaches people that man-made rules can be just, and give satisfaction. It teaches an honor unconnected to religiosity and modesty, tribal slights and vengeance. It teaches that exuberance can be constructive, and that individualism and innovation can be blessings (and, equally, that conservatism can often be dangerous). Cricket allows Pakistanis to play against men from other faiths and lands, and to belong with pride to a sporting commonwealth of cricket-playing nations that is a world away from the aridity of the ummah….
Ah well. Perhaps it can still be that potent secular force in Afghanistan. It's early days…
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