If we consider Pakistan's circumstances since it dived into the Afghan conflict, there has been constant bloodshed. With the toxic mix of religion, politics and weaponry, it became very easy for individuals to act as the judge, the jury and the executioner. The state has been complacent and blatantly aided the process, proof being the recent Mashal Khan tragedy.

We tend to look after just our own interests. Nothing would be truer than this statement with regards to modern sportsmen. History provides us rich examples of global super stars like Mohammad Ali, who risked everything for what he believed in. The West Indies team of the 70s and 80s fought against blatant racism and their triumph was a victory against systematic biases. For Pakistan, Abdul Hafeez Kardar, the 1st captain of Pakistan went on to be part of Pakistan People's party. All matches against England were taken more seriously as a battle against the former colonial masters.

In such a background, Junaid Khan going to see the grieving family of Mashal Khan is just wonderful. This could be fatal for an individual in the public sphere like Junaid, as the brutal killing of Mashal showed perceptions are enough for individuals to play god. But Junaid Khan was brave enough to take that risk. For someone who comes from a similar background, it reflects so positively on the pacer as an individual. Some may want to paint it as a political or religious choice. Don't pay heed to them. This is a choice of humanity. This is a simple choice between right and wrong. Junaid Khan's cricketing abilities may be up for debate, but he has shown his character with this gesture. Junaid Khan, you are a true hero.