Pakistani pacer Mohammed Amir has expressed his interest in playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The left-arm fast bowler recently stated that he will be eligible to participate in India’s premier T20 tournament by next year.
Pakistani players have been barred from the IPL since its inaugural season in 2008. However, Amir could become eligible by obtaining a British passport, as his wife, Narjis, is a UK citizen, and he reportedly moved there in 2020.
He confirmed his willingness to play in the IPL if given an opportunity, speaking on the show ‘Haarna Mana Hai’ (as quoted by ‘Indian Express’).
“Next year tak meri opportunity ban rahi agar hua to kyu nahi (By next year, I will have the opportunity to play in the IPL and if given the chance then why not). I will play in the IPL.”
Notably, former Pakistan cricketer Azhar Mahmood followed a path similar to Amir. After obtaining British citizenship, he participated in the IPL for three seasons from 2012 to 2015.
Amir made his last appearance for Pakistan in the 2024 T20 World Cup after briefly reversing his retirement. However, he retired from international cricket once again in December 2024.
“Amir Could Lead RCB to IPL Glory”- Ahmad Shahzad
On the show, Pakistani batter Ahmad Shahzad expressed that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) could secure a trophy if they included Mohammed Amir in their squad. He noted that while RCB boasts a strong batting lineup, they have consistently lacked strength in their bowling attack.
Shahzad suggested that Amir could be a valuable addition to the team, stating:
“RCB need a bowler like Amir to fix their bowling woes. They have good batting unit but their problem has always been a problem. If Amir plays for RCB, they will win the title.”
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