Former Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Amir is set to obtain a British passport next year. He married Narjis Khan, a British citizen and lawyer, in 2016, and he relocated to England in 2020. With just one year remaining, the former Pakistani cricketer is on track to receive his British passport.
During his international career, Amir played 50 T20 internationals for Pakistan, taking 59 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.02. Some of his performances against India are still remembered by Indian fans, such as his figures of 3/18 in the 2016 Asia Cup where he dismissed Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, and Suresh Raina. The former Pakistani speedster also left his impact in the 2017 Champions Trophy (CT) final where he took the wickets of Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan, and Virat Kohli, finishing with the figures of 6-2-16-3.
Amir retired from international cricket in 2020 at the age of 28, citing mental torture from the team management as the reason. Since then, he has been playing in various T20 leagues around the world.
It should be noted that Pakistani players are currently not allowed to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, obtaining a British passport might open up opportunities for Amir. The big question remains whether the left-arm pacer himself is interested in joining the lucrative cash-rich league.
In an interview with ARY News, Amir commented on his future in international cricket and the possibility of playing in the IPL under a British passport.
When asked if he would play for the England cricket team in 2024, Amir categorically said no.
“First, I will not play for England. I have played for Pakistan. Second (talking of IPL), there is one more year to go. What will be the scenario at that time. I always say that I go step by step. We don’t know what will happen tomorrow and I start thinking about playing IPL in 2024,” the former cricketer said to ARY News.
“I don’t know where I will be a year later. No one knows about the future. When I get my passport whatever the best opportunity will be and what I will get I will avail it,” Amir concluded.
Although the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) does not permit Pakistani cricketers to participate in the IPL, there have been exceptions in the past. Azhar Mahmood, who held a British passport, played for the Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) in 2013. Later in his career, Mahmood also had a stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). If Mohammad Amir acquires a British passport next year and registers for the IPL Auction, he would become one of the few Pakistani players to have played in the league. Given his past performances and record against India, he could attract bids if he decides to enter the auction.
The 31-year-old has played 36 Tests, 61 ODIs and 50 T20Is for Pakistan. His last international appearance was against England in a T20I match at Old Trafford in August 2020.
