Amir doesn’t deserve the jersey Hanif and Imran proudly wore: Latif

E-Paper | July 25, 2026

KARACHI: Former players and fans Saturday voiced contrasting opinions about the prospect of talented Mohammad Amir rejoining Pakistan's national squad after finishing a five-year ban over spot fixing.

The 23-year-old Amir has shown remarkable wicket-taking form in domestic matches since his ban was relaxed in April this year, taking 84 wickets in 12 four-day and 11 Twenty20 matches.

Amir, then Test captain Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif were charged with accepting money in exchange for arranging deliberate no-balls during a Test match at Lord's in England in 2010.

The three players and their agent Mazhar Majeed were jailed by a British court in 2011. Amir, Butt and Asif were also banned from cricket for five years.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has included Amir in a training camp from which a squad will be selected for next month's tour of New Zealand where they are scheduled to play three one-day internationals and as many Twenty20 internationals.

Amir is a favourite to get the selectors' nod, pending his visa for New Zealand.

But former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif said Amir should not be selected for the national team.

“Amir is a living example of someone who betrayed Pakistan in an international match,” Latif, who risked his career in the fight against match-fixing, told AFP.

Latif blew the whistle on some of his fellow players in 1995, his testimony forming the basis of a match fixing inquiry three years later.

Latif said Amir should only play domestic matches and leagues.

“Let him live his life but don't allow him to play for the country again.

“He can play domestic cricket and play in different leagues but don't allow him to wear the same national colour which stalwarts like Hanif Mohammad, Imran Khan, Majid Khan, Wasim Bari, Fazal Mahmood and Javed Miandad wore with pride,” said Latif.

Two current Pakistan players — former Twenty captain Mohammad Hafeez and current one-day skipper Azhar Ali also objected to the presence of Amir in the camp and it was only after PCB convinced them, that they joined the camp on Saturday.

But another former captain, Mohammad Yousuf, backed Amir's inclusion.

“Amir is a wonderful bowler and since he has completed his sentence he has every right to play for Pakistan again,” said Yousuf in a television interview.

“Amir is performing very well since his ban was lifted and his inclusion will strengthen Pakistan team, so I back his inclusion,” said Yousuf.

Fans on the street mostly backed Amir.

“He was a kid when the scandal happened,” said Asfaq Khan, an engineering student, referring to the fact that Amir was 18 years old in 2010.

“Amir is a special bowler and deserves a place in the team.”

Butt and Asif will also feature in a national one-day tournament next month and can press their chances for selection once they complete their rehabilitation.

Sport

203

Azhar, Hafeez will have to support Amir 'unconditionally': PCB chairman

Azhar, Hafeez may face disciplinary action for opposing Amir's return: Shaharyar

Mohammad Amir – prisoner of past is long way from triumph

Amir

Dec 26, 2015 08:08pm

Well said Mr.Latif

Recommend 0

Syed

Dec 26, 2015 08:15pm

latifs typical uneducated comments.

Recommend 0

sheikh

Dec 26, 2015 08:15pm

Mr Lateef......i have always respected your views, but this time you think like ordinary.

Recommend 0

Mariyam

Dec 26, 2015 08:23pm

I think Ameer will play for the interest of Pakistan !

Recommend 0

Saeed Masood

Dec 26, 2015 08:31pm

Amir and his come back is becoming more and more complicated day by day....this matter needs to be settled once for all, otherwise it will become very damaging for the already demoralised team...

Recommend 0

Saleem

Dec 26, 2015 08:32pm

Mr. Latif, I respect you but here are the things why I think Amir should be included in Pakistan team: 1) He was only 16 or 17 when he was convicted of match fixing. 2) He has served his time, so now we should forgive him and move forward. 3) PCB also has forgiven him. I understand if he was over 18 but he was not. So please understand this and allow him to play for Pakistan.

Recommend 0

ahha

Dec 26, 2015 08:34pm

Let's ask Imran and Hanif and see what the say. If both say he deserves a 2nd chance then I guess Latif has to keep... well... what about other greats like Miandad, Wasim, Waqar???

Recommend 0

Nasiroski

Dec 26, 2015 08:42pm

Where RL is coming from is the sentimental aspect of the situation, but while respecting his views considering his gallant fight against the corruption in the game, MA has paid his dues he has done the time and so he should be allowed to play any level provided he has the prerequisite ie performance.

Recommend 0

Saiful Ansari

Dec 26, 2015 08:47pm

The ex-players must take in to account that even the worst criminals after they have done their time are integrated back in to society. They are forgiven and less we speak of their tainted past the better it is for our own decency. Amir was 18 and his crime 'No Balls'. The folks who are on a vendetta to advertise their own up righteousness by openly voicing their disagreement for national selection of a cricketer who has served his time do not represent the voice of reason. Whatever may be the agenda of these seniors, they stand on the side of injustice by pushing for extended punishment of an individual who has done his time.

Recommend 0

Sixer from Chakwal

Dec 26, 2015 08:48pm

We as a public back Amir

Recommend 0

Bill Gates

Dec 26, 2015 08:49pm

Mr. Latif; Just a question. How many times you have seen a player as talented as Amir? In our Team, we need players who are talented which make things happen. You have watched and seen a lot of players recently. T20 and ODI we suck. We lost from Bangladesh Team. How shameful it is when you lost from a team which have no experience but do have heart. In Pakistani T20 and ODI Team I don't see talent which I say ok we have chance in World Cup. Adding Amir which he paid his price of doing things wrong. Which a lot of Players have done it in past when we did not had ICC. Isolating a Talent will keep us away for getting closer to be in Semi and Finals. Azhar and Hafeez are acting like a kid but you are experience Player and you have played with Imran. You need to let Amir go, need to look into getting a good bowler to work with Amir to make our attacked real. Sobbing the Past won't give you any good result just your ego like Azhar and Hafeez.

Recommend 0

salman

Dec 26, 2015 08:54pm

all average players are against the inclusion of amir in the team

Recommend 0

Yasir Saeed

Dec 26, 2015 08:55pm

i remember rashid latif claiming to take a catch after it had been dropped in an ODI......

Recommend 0

Haroon

Dec 26, 2015 08:56pm

Shane Warn was also caught in the match fixing claim. He was not even jailed and with a small suspension Australians moved on. Mr Amir even went to Jail and he had endured 5 years of ban. Every person must be given second chance. I totally disagre with Mr Latif comments.

Recommend 0

Zafarov

Dec 26, 2015 08:57pm

@Saleem Amir was convicted of spot fixing. He deliberately bowled a no ball. It was a disgraceful thing to do but it was not match fixing, which means delberately under performing to achieve a pre determined result of a match.

Recommend 0

Riaz

Dec 26, 2015 08:59pm

I have a lot of respect for Mr. Latif, but I disagree with him on this point. Aamir has served his sentence and has been remorseful from day one. He will be a great ambassador for anti-corruption for ICC in general and for Pakistan in particular. Besides, Islam and all the societies allow for 2nd chances and forgiveness. Lets all of us support him whole heatedly and give him a 2nd chance.

Recommend 0

Aween

Dec 26, 2015 09:00pm

@Mariyam Agreed.. Players like these exist only for the pride of Pakistan and he will InshaAllah also expose and stop current hidden fixing of matches.

Recommend 0

Saiful Ansari

Dec 26, 2015 09:00pm

I guess New Zealand will spare the likes of Mr. Latif and Mr. Raja the grief by denying visa and entry to Amir. It will be like killing two birds with the same stone. Apparently the other bird would be to protect team New Zealand from facing Amir and a possible defeat.

Recommend 0

Adnan

Dec 26, 2015 09:03pm

Latif Bhai, you gained my respect by taking a stand against Amir's inclusion in the team.

Recommend 0

Khawar

Dec 26, 2015 09:04pm

Stop this bickering. Let the game begin and let this kid play. This kid is of sons age and they are making plenty of mistakes. Is there any one who did not commit any sin. All those who are claiming that they are pious Just ask them are these individuals are paying their income tax according to their income. This is also big sin and harming our country.

Recommend 0

Capt C M Khan

Dec 26, 2015 09:09pm

Average Players...have Average minds. Do not know the mean of RE-INTEGRATION in society. This 21st Century grow up Rashid sahib and let the young man be RE-INTEGRATED in society. Thanks. Rashid has not found a single Talent in the twenty years that he has been coaching etc.

Recommend 0

Aween

Dec 26, 2015 09:09pm

@Yasir Saeed Yes! I also remember, even that brought disrepute to our nation. What about that, Mr. Latif? Do you have any justification of that illegitimate appeal for which your were also suspended.

Recommend 0

Canada

Dec 26, 2015 09:13pm

It begs the question, if PK were a top elite team, the likes of Aus, NZ and SA with a stable full of bowlers like during the golden years, would PK seem so willing to include Amir? I can't help feeling that PKistanis and PCB feel Amir will be their saviour and will bring back bowling glory. Hence it seems more a move based on desperation then justice. If Amir were just a decent and ordinary player with no star potential, Id be willing to bet everyone unanimously would not want Amir near the team. So again I feel PK is selling its soul and dignity cheaply, just for a cheap thrill.

Recommend 0

Wamiq

Dec 26, 2015 09:13pm

Agree with Rashid on this 100%. Amir should be allowed to play domestic cricket only. Never again for Pakistan.

Recommend 0

Saeed Masood

Dec 26, 2015 09:17pm

Mr. Rashid Latif...Answer this question...You were a very good player of your time no doubt about it...did you pay back Pakistan by training one very good player of your caliper...???...if not then why were you so selfish...???...this question is for every Pakistan cricket great...Do the Pakistan greats want to leave a legacy behind or just keep pulling the legs of other and end their lives..

Recommend 0

Shehzad

Dec 26, 2015 09:18pm

Interestingly Latif did not mention Waqar Younis or Mushtaq Ahmed.

Recommend 0

Rashid

Dec 26, 2015 09:19pm

I agree with Mr Lateef. The kind of bad vibes Amir will bring to the team can be harmful for Pakistani team. Alas we are so thin in Talent; and it looks like we don't have much options at this point, so he will be part of the team.

Recommend 0

AXH

Dec 26, 2015 09:38pm

Mr. Latif, while I understand your stand against corruption, but you cannot paint everything with the same brush. There is a big difference between a habitual thief and a one-time thief. Did you ever make the same statement against the players from the 90s? Amir is going to play for Pakistan again and that is the fact that the people who are having a hard time to accept but are in a clear minority needs to accept.

Recommend 0

Sarah

Dec 26, 2015 09:39pm

@Amir Who is Latif a below par cricketer with no noticeable performance?

Recommend 0

Dec 26, 2015 09:50pm

He is seeking his 10 minutes of fame with his silly comments. Everyone needs to move on with what happens 5+ years ago. He made a mistake, got punished, paid his dues and is living his 2nd life. Go Amir you have 80% of people supporting you and prove these low lifers wrong.

Recommend 0

Taimur

Dec 26, 2015 09:50pm

Mr. Latif, Dont punish the one who has been caught and has already been punished. He was not to only evil in our team. Number of others who were not caught had played and got retired with honor while we all knew what they did in their prime time.

Recommend 0

Sarah

Dec 26, 2015 09:51pm

Mr.Latif whether you like it or not,Amir will be back in Pakistan team,almost 80 percent of Pakistani fans support him and sees in him in future revival of Pakistan cricket.You below average cricketers have ruined the country image by under performing.I think that under performance was best performance by you people standard.We fans were unfortunately not proud of your best performance,we want Amir!!!

Recommend 0

Dec 26, 2015 09:52pm

@sheikh I agree

Recommend 0

Ahmed

Dec 26, 2015 09:52pm

Latif has all my respect but this time, i don't agree with him. Latif should make difference between crook and being trapped by crooked. When you are not sufficiently equiped with handling traps, peolpe like Amir in young age are trapped. It is job of elders (PCB & Co.) to teach youngsters. It was a failure of PCB and then comes responsibilty downwards.

Recommend 0

Pakistani

Dec 26, 2015 09:53pm

if our parliament and government is full of criminals and convicts, why not him. Its our national culture.

Recommend 0

Sixer from Chakwal

Dec 26, 2015 09:55pm

@Mariyam Who is Ameer? Some alternative of Amir? :D

Recommend 0

ailly

Dec 26, 2015 09:59pm

lolz, we know those were old jersies........ Amir need new one ...

Recommend 0

sami

Dec 26, 2015 09:59pm

Everyone and I mean EVERYONE deserves a second chance. God is all about forgiveness and supportive of those who make mistakes and then correct themselves. It is such a shame that you cannot see much less understand the kindness, forgiveness and compassion of your Creator. What happened in your life that turned your hearts to stone?

Recommend 0

mdalikhoja

Dec 26, 2015 10:01pm

not only aamir but the whole team doesn't deserve the jersey that Hanif and Imran wore..

Recommend 0

baki

Dec 26, 2015 10:01pm

Ammir has apologized to his mates. This is what he can do. So giving these sort of comments does not make sense. Many parchi players have been wearing this jersi so does not that embarrass ?

Recommend 0

sandeep

Dec 26, 2015 10:14pm

The basic reason PCB and most fans are so eager to select aamir is that he is a wonderful bowler and pakistan bowling stocks looks thin right now...if he was an ordinary player OR pakistan had found a great option in 5 years then nobody would have a given a damn about aamir...but unfortunetly for pakistan thay did not find any prospect in that period and they are struggling in odis....Keep in mind one more thing....Visa problems for tours of england,nz or uae...and kind of hostility aamir will face if he gets back in the team from other teams or the crowds....example he is feilding at the boundary and crowd callling him a cheater and boo ing him....Can he handle this sort of situations?????lets see...

Recommend 0

salman

Dec 26, 2015 10:22pm

amir can become a legend

Recommend 0

Aween

Dec 26, 2015 10:24pm

@Sarah Completely agree! A player who never made a mark in international cricket as a Pakistani player. A huge burden on the team.

Recommend 0

M.Saeed

Dec 26, 2015 10:35pm

Even a juvenile killer is given a maximum of 3 years' "rehabilitation confinement" and also, that sentence is not called "jailed" to protect the youngsters' future. We must talk with due considerations.

Recommend 0

Unair

Dec 26, 2015 10:38pm

Even murderers under 18 are tried as minors. He already did his time. Paid his dues. Just like Wasim aAkram and the seven players who were involved in whistle blowing case.

Recommend 0

zeeshandxb

Dec 26, 2015 10:46pm

For once i share the same opinion as latif, hafeez and azhar. My point is next time if one wants to spot fix, stakes will be high. Player might include price for spot fixing, legal and jail time prices if caught, if banned for life price, plus extra percentage for taking criticism for all life. If aamir can come back because he was a kid, then lets rehabilitate all 17 year olds in languishing in pakistan jails and lets get them jobs. Aamir is a good bowler. But some chances are once in a lifetime chances and he has wasted those lifelines.

Recommend 0

PakCanuck

Dec 26, 2015 10:47pm

Absolutely agree with Latif. Yes Aamir's inclusion in the team will likely help improve the bowling however he was convicted. The 5 years that he was banned was the bare minimum that ICC banned him for. PCB should have banned him for life. No Pakistani player who has been convicted of match fixing or spot fixing should be allowed back in. Pakistan cricket needs to re-establish respect and it wont come by winning with tainted players

Recommend 0

Ali

Dec 26, 2015 10:50pm

Latif bhai, even though I am against your opinion but you are the only person who I respect and who can say on this matter since most kids now don't even know that you and Basit Ali are the only people who gave up your career and raised voice against this corruption in Cricket. But now time has changed and Amir has already served his sentence for what he did and if it's not illegal according to the laws then he should be able to play. You should lobby with PCB to make laws that should prevent people to play and until then Amir should be in the team. We can't live our lives on emotions that's why we have laws.

Recommend 0

Muhammed ali

Dec 26, 2015 10:56pm

He committed a crime and paid for it. I can name some players who have also let down the country over the years. I remember IK being in the tabloids every week. Salim malik in a casino just after the final of the World Cup and plenty more. So lay off Amir he was an impressionable youngster guided by 2 men who should have known better.

Recommend 0

Mamun

Dec 26, 2015 10:58pm

This is Latif who has been banned for five matches for cheating. In a crucial moment of a test match against Bangladesh, he has caught the ball from the ground but appealed so loudly as if he took the ball in the air. The umpire also raised the finger. But TV replays showed that he took the ball touching ground. This caused him to a five-match suspension. He knew that the ball touched the ground but he appealed.

Recommend 0

Iqbal Ali

Dec 26, 2015 10:58pm

You can push players into a single dressing room but you cannot create a team out it. Latif and others are right. If even a single current payer will object then Aamir should not be part of the team.

Recommend 0

Dec 26, 2015 10:59pm

Latif and Raja are crazy. Raja just wants to uphold an image in front of PCB and ICC to be in their good books. Latif is a known dimwit. How can you castigate for life a child who errs under pressure of a superior ? You gotta be kidding me Latif. I expected better from national heroes like you..

Recommend 0

Vaseem Siddiqi

Dec 26, 2015 11:01pm

In a country where dishonesty and corruption pays how can we not expect majority to want Amir back in the team. There is also hero worship rather than what is BEST for TEAM PAKISTAN. I doubt Amir is going to make significant difference. we already have three outstanding fast bowlers in Wahab, Gul and Junaid. If one of them is not fit or out of form in the reserve we have Rahat Ali, Sohail Khan, Mohammed Irfan and many more. As long as Pakistanis continue to treat corruption as trivial we as a NATION will continue to suffer.

Recommend 0

PakCanuck

Dec 26, 2015 11:06pm

@Shehzad Big difference - the ones you mentioned are well respected members of the international cricket community. Allegations aside, they have not been tried, let alone convicted

Recommend 0

Vaseem Siddiqi

Dec 26, 2015 11:07pm

@Nasiroski Some of are of the view that once you tarnish the image of Pakistan than you forfeit the right to represent the country. Making excuses about his age and that he came from a small village are all irrelevant. I can introduce you to many Pakistanis who are from small villages, under the age of 18 and uneducated but would never dream of cheating let alone degrading their country. It just happens Amir lawyers were very clever and got him to admit his crime immediately and since than have played the sympathy card with regard to his age. Winning at any cost is not worth it and I doubt he will make much difference to the fortune of pakistan team. However, winning with honour is everything.

Recommend 0

Dec 26, 2015 11:07pm

Typical jazbati comment, no one is denying that what he did was wrong but he was punished for his crimes, what now? We all knows that he is phenomenally talented why can't we give him another chance? Arguably, you are an exception but can you tell how many past and current players never did anything wrong and they never accept and never punished? Atleast give him credit that he accepts his crime and be punished.

Recommend 0

PakCanuck

Dec 26, 2015 11:08pm

@Saeed Masood That is some bizarre logic. IT will be good if Latif would have trained someone, but that has no bearing on this discussion here.

Recommend 0

Nadeem

Dec 26, 2015 11:11pm

Not sure why these people are not stopping frustrating comments. Public will definitely take hard on them and then you will see them saying 'social media is being abused'..Come on, give it a break now!

Recommend 0

Vaseem Siddiqi

Dec 26, 2015 11:15pm

@Nasiroski MA may have paid his dues in England or satisfied ICC but not in Pakistan where some of us feel that he has forfeited the right to wear Pakistan cap / shirt forever.

Recommend 0

Vaseem Siddiqi

Dec 26, 2015 11:18pm

@Canada I do not even think he will make much difference to the Pakistan team if he is included, his ability is being overestimated both by PCB and the fans.

Recommend 0

anees from zaida

Dec 26, 2015 11:19pm

Does any of Nawaz Sharif, Zardari, Altaf Hussain deserve the chair once honoured by Jinnah or Liaqat Ali Khan?

Recommend 0

zak

Dec 26, 2015 11:19pm

@Sarah : He is legendary cricketer and made our country proud with his batting

Recommend 0

karachi wala

Dec 26, 2015 11:20pm

Totally agreed with Latif!!!

Recommend 0

Vaseem Siddiqi

Dec 26, 2015 11:21pm

@Shehzad Because they too were involved in match fixing with Wasim, Inzimam, Saeed Anwar, Saqlain and others. Whilst I accept they were outstanding players but I too do not have respect for them as they were involved in match fixing.

Recommend 0

karachi wala

Dec 26, 2015 11:21pm

@Syed : wo you should show him some "educated" comments please.

Recommend 0

abdul qadir malik

Dec 26, 2015 11:22pm

he got the punishment... now he should be in the team.... i guess every player in there career make such mistakes... some are caught,,, some dont get caught,,,, and in future PCB should set tougher parameters....

Recommend 0

Vaseem Siddiqi

Dec 26, 2015 11:22pm

@Rashid We do have an option, win with honour and not at any cost.

Recommend 0

Vaseem Siddiqi

Dec 26, 2015 11:25pm

@AXH It is not surprising that only a minority are against Amir's participation in the team. This is because Pakistan is a country where majority treat corruption as trivial.

Recommend 0

sarfraz

Dec 26, 2015 11:35pm

I respect Rashid Latif but does not agree to his point of view. Amir has completed his sentence and there is no reason now to keep him out of the national team, as he has proved to be fit and performing superb.

Recommend 0

Mohammad S. Khalid

Dec 26, 2015 11:44pm

Amir, Be brave boy. Prove your worth in the field.

Recommend 0

Dr. Shafiq

Dec 26, 2015 11:47pm

Oh really, I don't understand what is such big deal about Muhammad Aamir returning to Pakistan team. Yes, I totally agree that he made a stupid mistake being so young , but he paid a big prize for that. So, let's forgive him & support him when he returns. If we are so call Pakistani are so pious then why do we elect corrupt people into parliament & ultimately being PM of Pakistan. We need to start from there & then move onwards.

Recommend 0

Revenge

Dec 26, 2015 11:51pm

Never seen more drama in any other team. Daily soap! Now preaches a man who once picked the ball form the ground to claim it as a catch.

Recommend 0

Revenge

Dec 26, 2015 11:55pm

@Saiful Ansari So boastful you are like your other countrymen.

Recommend 0

Dec 26, 2015 11:55pm

Just because Amir is the best cricketer in Pakistan without a doubt but that should not make him a selected player in the team. You may have paid your dues but you will always have a very bad record on your name and to represent your country with that tainted image is making a joke of the Pakistan team.

Recommend 0

John Sullivan

Dec 26, 2015 11:55pm

Hats off to your Rashid Latif. I wish and hope everyone in Pakistan sports is like you straightforward and honest. But money can buy anyone and everyone. It is sad but the plain truth.

Recommend 0

John Sullivan

Dec 26, 2015 11:57pm

@Haroon Two wrongs do not make one right

Recommend 0

John Sullivan

Dec 26, 2015 11:58pm

@Sarah He played for the national team. I do not know who you are but for sure I know who RL is.

Recommend 0

Dec 26, 2015 11:58pm

@Sixer from Chakwal You mean you as you. Please don't include me.

Recommend 0

karachi wala

Dec 27, 2015 12:14am

@Capt C M Khan : have you forgot Sarfaraz Ahmed? By the way, why is everyone of you wanted to bring amir back in the team? why not salman but and asif? because they are past their prime and you are desparate to have a match winning bowler to win you matches?

Recommend 0

junaid

Dec 27, 2015 12:14am

Purpose of any punishment is to correct one's behavior and not to destroy one. Latif is suggesting to destroy someone's career, due to a mistake he has admitted and been penalized for. I find it very cruel of him. While our media should stop covering such opinions against Amir, it should start covering the positives of Amir and his return to the cricket. Aus, India, NZ, SL, WI. are nervous to know that Amir is back in action. They are quietly preparing /training to counter his fire.

Recommend 0

karachi wala

Dec 27, 2015 12:16am

Those asking for amir's return in the team just imagine him touring england next year when in lords the spectators would be shouting at him and again brining pakistan into disrepute and demoralizing the whole team and with it the whole nation.

Recommend 0

Khanoo

Dec 27, 2015 12:16am

Ok, give him another design jersey in green but let him play or produce another bowler like him.

Recommend 0

Ahmad

Dec 27, 2015 12:24am

What about the coaching staff (Waqar, Mushi, etc) whose names were in Malik Qayyum's report for match fixing. Where do those opposed to Amir's return stand on corruption and moral issues here?

Recommend 0

Tabassum Qureshi

Dec 27, 2015 12:25am

No choice, Corrupt players have to represent a Corrupt nation. Well done Shehryar Khan for your shortsightedness.

Recommend 0

FireHafeez

Dec 27, 2015 12:40am

Lay Off Latif Sb! The lad paid for his mistake in blood and tears. ICC is ok with his sentence but apparently some saints in Pakistan are not.

Recommend 0

Bilal Khan

Dec 27, 2015 12:41am

Majority of Pakistani people are supporting Aamir because he was an immature guy at the time of crime and it's easy to manipulate the mind of teenager. Real culprits are Salman and Asif not Aamir. He deserves a chance that's it.

Recommend 0

Sherry

Dec 27, 2015 12:43am

The next time you get a bout of morality Mr. Latif then please think about that bounced ball catch you claimed successfully

Recommend 0

DocHoliday

Dec 27, 2015 12:44am

Latif is an ignorant and conceited bigot. Aamir has served his sentence and should be allowed to play. Latif was an honest and talented player but comes out with typical uneducated and bigoted comments time and again. If "Wasim Akram" can play again, so can Aamir. Aamir was young and not as conniving as players has been in the past. He is the only one to have served sentence.

Recommend 0

Amar

Dec 27, 2015 01:02am

I think whosoever is making comments about not letting Mohammad Amir back in the Pakistan team, is kind of illiterate and ignorant. Even Almighty God is merciful, and beneficent. Who we are to judge and make decision. Mohammad Amir got his punishment from the PCB as well as ICC, and ICC have granted him the permission to play international cricket, like they have done with other cricketers. So what's wrong in giving this poor guy a chance. People should be friendly, and should welcome open heart. He should be advised from the senior players, not make make same kind of mistakes in future to have a good reputation for himself as well as for Pakistan.

Recommend 0

Let Me Say

Dec 27, 2015 01:07am

He admitted to be guilty...law punished him...Drama Over....Let him play now....if he is reformed then respect the law. Who knows he will bring good name to Pakistan in future...!! Are we forgetting that our sitting prime minister was convicted and sentenced to life time imprisonment....after wards the punishment was waved off and look he is PM now... Amir may be does not has as influential background as others have here...but if has got talent then after punishment is over...he Must be Allowed to Play

Recommend 0

Asjad munir

Dec 27, 2015 01:25am

Rashid Latif tryingt o stay relevant. Mr Latif would you please share your thoughts on how you were caught on camera claiming a dropped catch and successfully fooled on field umpires. It was then after camera showed ur stratagems, u were sacked. will u please throw some light over that incoident?. Point fingers at others, it is good but clean your hands first.

Recommend 0

Athar Sherwani

Dec 27, 2015 01:25am

Am I right in remembering many years ago when Rashid Latif claimed a catch dis- honestly and got banned thus causing Pakistan supporters embarrassment. Pot calling kettle black!!!!

Recommend 0

Ahmer

Dec 27, 2015 01:31am

@ahha Wasim has already been involved in match fixing. To jostle your memory a bit, both Wasim, Waqar and Mushtaq were caught red handed smoking hash in West Indies in a tour. They hardly make a beacon of good character for others.

Recommend 0

Parvez

Dec 27, 2015 01:32am

And Latif who the hell are you to pass judgement? Admit it. Do you or the likes of you "CHEAT" on your Taxes...we can never know the true answer , but I can guess you do cheat. The next time you stand in front of mirror and look at yourself try to answer truthfully . The same question I put to Ramiz Raja. If you have cheated then please, shut up and sit down and let the kid live his life.

Recommend 0

Azim

Dec 27, 2015 01:34am

Even prison releases the prisoner early on good behavior so whats the problem if Amir is going to wear Pakistan's color? Each individual in our country needs to understand the law and the constitution. According to law Amir is allow to play for the country even if all the players refuse to play with him. We will understand this; only if we understand the value of the Law and the the Constitution.

Recommend 0

Khawar

Dec 27, 2015 01:35am

Till the time people like Rashid Latif are in our socity there is hope that we will become a respected nation otherwise international community will keep on treating us like dishonest crooks... Hats off to you Rashid Latif and all those who are opposing return of tainted players in the team.

Recommend 0

Sheikh

Dec 27, 2015 01:36am

JUST LET IT GO... EVERYONE MAKES Mistakes... He made a mistake n paid for it.. Now let him play n get on with his life..

Recommend 0

naeem

Dec 27, 2015 01:40am

Latif is entitled to his opinion - and that is where it stops! Let the boy get on with his life & make amends for his mistakes;he has already served his time.

Recommend 0

Dr. Abid Shah Mashwani

Dec 27, 2015 01:45am

Mr. Latif should also ask himself if Waqar Younis and Mushtaq Ahmad, both convicted by Qayyum commission, can play for Pakistan and be coach and assistant coach of Pakistan team. Plus Zardari, Nawaz Shareef, Altaf Hussain can sit in presidency, national assembly and senate, then an 18 year old uneducated kid committing a crime and paying for it with a loss of 5 years, why he can't play again. Similarly, what punishment PCB gave to then coach and manager who were supposed to look after the players?

Recommend 0

Desi

Dec 27, 2015 01:46am

He was just a 17 year old kid who followed the example of a few rotten apples, plus he also paid for his mistake by serving a 5 year ban ... give the poor kid a break and allow him the opportunity to redeem himself.

Recommend 0

Manto

Dec 27, 2015 01:47am

No well sad. Mr. Lateef. Mohammad Aamir got his punishment and paid the price what he did. Now he deserves the place in the National team. What I believe, He is still match winning bowler. The couple of players did by boycott the camp, I guess they are scared of him. Mohammad Aamir should given a chance put Pakistan on top.

Recommend 0

Hira

Dec 27, 2015 01:48am

Education is key, and I do not mean religious... Theses are small boys looking to earn quick bucks because they know 2-3 matches and there're out. Keep a tutor for the boys, educate them...

Recommend 0

Shahid Akbar, New York

Dec 27, 2015 01:49am

How about politicians who have taken oath to serve people? Please keep your comments to yourself Rashid Latif. Let Aamir be Aamir again.

Recommend 0

Khawar

Dec 27, 2015 01:50am

@Capt C M Khan Capt Sahib your average remarks are always very entertaining.

Recommend 0

Vic

Dec 27, 2015 01:52am

@ahha Wasim and Waqar were match fixers themselves----so like asking a fox to gurad the hen house.

Recommend 0

logic

Dec 27, 2015 02:00am

@Saiful Ansari you think Amir is a jinn out of a bottle.. Who will solve every problem.. I assure you his performance will be mediocre there...

Recommend 0

logic

Dec 27, 2015 02:02am

@Sarah yes he was an average player but not a match fixer.

Recommend 0

Waqas

Dec 27, 2015 02:10am

Imagine Amir representing Pakistan, what is the image that he now portrays of Pakistan around the globe? Of a nation that has criminals in its team. Everywhere he'll go, his past will haunt him and foreginers will make sure he doesnt forget his past.

Recommend 0

M Waj

Dec 27, 2015 02:10am

This needs to stop. This is becoming a circus. This is not about opinion. It's about judgement. I don't like what Amir did but he paid the price. If we as a society, has the right to punish then it's our duty to rehabilitate once the punishment is over. His punishment needs to end. It can't go on forever.

Recommend 0

waleed KARACHI

Dec 27, 2015 02:22am

@Syed he is engineer from NED....legend himself too.

Recommend 0

M Waj

Dec 27, 2015 02:39am

For got sake, he only bowled one no ball. Unlike Hafiz who has been bowling no balls all his life with that illegal action.

Recommend 0

Rashid

Dec 27, 2015 02:46am

And Mr Rashid Latif, you dont deserve to speak about this matter anymore. You have made several match fixing acquisitions in the past and was never able to provide any proofs. You must start with an apology just like Amir did. Everyone makes a mistake but if they repent they must be forgiven.

Recommend 0

Rashid

Dec 27, 2015 02:49am

@Rashid What makes you think Amir will bring bad vibes? Amir hurt the country badly with his action but he apologized, now he deserves a chance to give something back to this country and fill a vacuum left by Waseem, Waqar and Shoaib.

Recommend 0

Rational

Dec 27, 2015 02:55am

I have a lot of respect for Latif but I wasn't expecting double standards from him. He is forgetting that Akram, Salim Malik, Ijaz Ahmed l, Inzi and Waqar Younis wore the same jersey and that too when he was in the team and under his captaincy.

Recommend 0

Rizwan

Dec 27, 2015 03:08am

When Mr Z can be our president then whats wrong here :)

Recommend 0

Anonymous

Dec 27, 2015 03:39am

If a person is convicted & sentenced to Jail Term then he is a recognized Criminal and as per norms he can not hold a public Office, Government Office, or an official position under any circumstances, similarly if a player representing Pakistan on International level is convicted of spot fixing and sent to Jail is a convict no matter if he was a Juvenile, no matter how good he is a player. Selecting Amir back into the Team will set a precedence for generations to come & I am sure PCB will not commit this crime.

Recommend 0

SALMAN

Dec 27, 2015 03:41am

Bring him back please and stop this nonsense. Enough.

Recommend 0

Icon of Honesty

Dec 27, 2015 03:51am

Where does these honest people are pouring in from. Majority of Pakistanis I mean a very large majority wants to see Amir playing for Pakistan. Amir have been cleared to play international cricket and that must shut every body's mouth. Those who are opposing his return are in fact challenging the decision of the authorities who put in the ban on him and now have removed it after the punishment. The rest are no authorities but self claimed GODS.

Recommend 0

Icon of Honesty

Dec 27, 2015 03:54am

@Saleem those who are opposing him are no authorities but the people who wants to come out in lime light. Nothing more than that but just cheap shots.

Recommend 0

Tanveer Khan

Dec 27, 2015 04:12am

As usual needless and controversial statement by Latif. Amir has paid his dues and has gone through a rehab program and is ready. Your attempts to stoke emotions and create a rift will not succeed.

Recommend 0

SMH

Dec 27, 2015 04:13am

Goofs can play but not Amir. Latif wants him to suffer whole life after completing the period of punishment. This can not happen in a civilized word.

Recommend 0

towfique

Dec 27, 2015 04:15am

@Canada I m 200% agree with u.

Recommend 0

Riffat

Dec 27, 2015 04:20am

Once it is matter of national colors; talent is not the only criteria

Recommend 0

RIZ

Dec 27, 2015 04:25am

Why did Rashid Latif played with Wasim Akram in 2003 world cup???? At least Amir admitted his mistake and serve the punishment. At the end of the day it's just Cricket. If you really want to help Pakistan raise your voice again corrupt politicians and government officers who becoming richer everyday by steeling Pakistan's wealth.

Recommend 0

pakiboy

Dec 27, 2015 04:42am

Completely agree, it's tough but cheats should not be allowed. Our nation needs to apply high moral standards in every day life as well.

Recommend 0

Shailesh

Dec 27, 2015 04:45am

Latif is wasting his breath. Amir will be included. You can bet your home mortgage on it. This is no different that any other sport where the urge to win at all costs will trump all the public claims and drama of upholding the spirit of the game. Let's accept it. You don't think Shahryar wants Amir in the team so that they can beat India ?

Recommend 0

Arslan

Dec 27, 2015 05:06am

If Amir is sidelined for good from national team, he should leave Pakistan and play for England/Australia/etc. These secular states have a much better understanding of forgiveness than some former and current players and people of Pakistan.

Recommend 0

aftab@UK

Dec 27, 2015 05:08am

Amir needs all this friction. If anyone remembers how Imran and Sarfraz discovered aggression, they know that Dennis Lillie and his Aussie cohort, who threw their sledge hammers with a curse, were the real inspiration for Imran to bowl so hard that his sleeve came off. On the flip side, all this opposition to Amir's inclusion will look interesting at the end of World Cup, when he will be announced as MVP. I would like to hear Mr. Rameez Raja's comments then.

Recommend 0

Naeem

Dec 27, 2015 05:51am

@Sarah it's no good by being spiteful to rashid latif. He was a very good player and served his country well. You have to give a rational argument against his view. His principal is a good one but I think he should make exception for amir as he was too young and easily impressionable at the age of 18.

Recommend 0

Kash

Dec 27, 2015 06:25am

@ahha Rashid Latif stood against Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis in the similar match fix case, that's why he would never mention their names as Greats.

Recommend 0

Ariz

Dec 27, 2015 06:30am

Everyone backing Amir's inclusion should answer one question , and if the answer is yes then he should be taken back. The question is that if you have a 18yr old servant at home and he is caught stealing from your house , and is sent to prison for the crime , would you hire him back once he is released after completing his jail term ? If you would hire him back then bring him back....

Recommend 0

Ravian

Dec 27, 2015 06:34am

Another Saint speaks out.

Recommend 0

Abcd

Dec 27, 2015 07:20am

I think people are desperate to get him back because Pakistan has not been performing well lately. They see him as a trump card.Further, as a lesson for future generations , I support latif saheb.

Recommend 0

F Khan

Dec 27, 2015 07:21am

PCB, get your act together. Because of your inaction, every one seems to be giving an opinion of their own. Your players had no right to say anything in public and those that did should be penalized and it should be exemplary so that going forward, no one ever even thinks of starting something like this. And, for once and for all, why don't you just come out with a strong statement to say that Amir has paid his dues, and if any one wants to now act as a judge and a juror, they need to do it in their own time -- and as one writer pointed out, it is all the mediocre cricketers, really, who are creating a fuss - so now we even know that.

Recommend 0

Arshad Jamil

Dec 27, 2015 07:30am

@Khawar You have summed it well. Let the kid play. And, if someone is that pious, ask this simple question: " who is responsible for Amir's wrongful action?" It is we, as a society, who do not see bribe, as wrong and practice it day in day out. We cheat every where. The 17 year kid, picked it from us. He thought, that a "No Ball" is not a big deal.

Recommend 0

dawn

Dec 27, 2015 07:48am

Latif is known to create a storm in a cup. Just listen to M.Yousuf. Amir plays.

Recommend 0

Saleem

Dec 27, 2015 07:51am

This is the first smartest decision taken by PCB to include Amir in the team.

Recommend 0

Dec 27, 2015 07:52am

No doubt, amir should be excluded from the squad...he did a bad thing...and he can play other forms of cricket to earn his bread. But is it okay to be selectively just? After all, we have Wasim Akram hovering over almost all major events...there's a LHC judgement on him.

Recommend 0

Abdulla Hussaun

Dec 27, 2015 08:22am

Who has not erred in life. There are many example in the world where murderers became respectable citizens after serving punishments. Pakistan is full of such examples where looters became boss. Latifa should also write about them. Only targeting this poor lad is not justified.

Recommend 0

Irfan Chand

Dec 27, 2015 08:23am

The great Imran Khan wants him to play , so Latif and similiar players should shut up. He will bring pride to the country this time. Welcome back Amir.

Recommend 0

Anwarahmad

Dec 27, 2015 08:38am

He brought bad name to the country .i agree with Rashid

Recommend 0

Zafar Ahmed

Dec 27, 2015 08:46am

@Bill Gates Talent should not be the lone criteria for playing.

Recommend 0

Majid Ali

Dec 27, 2015 08:48am

No law permit to give double punishment for the same crime. Amir did the crime and he got punishment .... who Rashi Latif or Rameez Raja is to give him another punishment? ....Is Rashid Latif and ramez think they are judge in the court and they will give punishment to Amir?

Recommend 0

Dr Khalid Nabi

Dec 27, 2015 08:50am

Comments on Amir's inclusion in the national team should end now. PCB has made the decision and all concerns have been addressed. I ask every one of you to accept the ground realties and let us move on. Enough has been written for and against and it is time to relieve all pressures on this young kid and let him focus on giving the nation some enjoyable winning matches ahead. If we continue to keep this row going, then we all could be partly responsible if he could nor perform to his best . Enough said, at least I will not write any more. K. Nabi Houston Texas

Recommend 0

Talish

Dec 27, 2015 09:22am

@Rashid Forget vibes, we need to play cricket and win. We want vibes lets go to Jamaica for a little vacation.

Recommend 0

Quamrul Islam

Dec 27, 2015 09:28am

And Latif also does not qualify to utter names like Hanif, Imran, Majid, Bari etc. as they did not do non-cricket like activities on the field as Latif did on live camera.

Recommend 0

Syed

Dec 27, 2015 09:29am

What a weak argument! more to stir emotions than anything. “He can play domestic cricket and play in different leagues but don't allow him to wear the same national colour which stalwarts like Hanif Mohammad, Imran Khan ... wore with pride,” So is Latif saying that Hanif and Imran did not play domestic with pride? Please do not come up with irrelevant arguments. Yes Amir made a mistake and he paid for it, He has shown remorse, completely accepted his mistake and will probably be under scrutiny for the rest of his career, so for him to do the same thing is very unlikely. Please do not try to be a judge here. Let the kid come back and play honorably and proudly for his country again.

Recommend 0

Rashid Ansari

Dec 27, 2015 09:36am

Rashid Latif needs some education to understand and analyse the issues so that he should not put his comments blindly.

Recommend 0

Dec 27, 2015 09:40am

Rashid Latif, despite being a great wicket keeper PK team ever had, you never reached to the place like your other great fellow players. Only bec of your below par ordinary mentality and thought process.

Recommend 0

Saleem

Dec 27, 2015 09:47am

Mr. Latif, you were my hero but not any more, because I think you cannot give a person a second chance to someone who made one mistaken while he was only 16 or 17. He did throw one or two no ball which is bad but not as bad as match fixing. I think PCB had made one good decision and now I respect PCB. Even God gives you a second chance and in this case this young guy has served the time.

Recommend 0

KaKa

Dec 27, 2015 09:56am

Now it's Mr. Latif. Who is next

Recommend 0

Dec 27, 2015 09:57am

It is his opinion and I have mine but it does not mean we should let Mr Latif decide who should wear the Pak colors and who shouldn't. It is up to the PCB as an institution and not any individual to decide who is eligible and who is not. PCB needs to follow its rules and guidelines, period.

Recommend 0

Wani

Dec 27, 2015 10:09am

Amir will for sure play and those who have problem must learn to deal with it..

Recommend 0

ANSER AZIM

Dec 27, 2015 10:17am

respect umpires decision.

Recommend 0

Saeed pakistani

Dec 27, 2015 10:41am

Agree with Latif. He should only be allowed to make living as suggested. No matter how much talented he is but betrayl & treason has no 2nd chance for representing a country. But these standards are only followed in west not here where we are already doomed as a nation& always welcome corrupt people & practises.

Recommend 0

Khan

Dec 27, 2015 10:42am

Can latif tell us about voting for a criminal in karachi.

Recommend 0

Imran

Dec 27, 2015 11:01am

Excuse me All Why he should be included?

Recommend 0

Idealist

Dec 27, 2015 11:05am

The guy has severed his punishment while the others who are giving these statements were involve in dodgy things in past however the only advantage they had was they never get caught , I would love to see Amir playing on every level.

Recommend 0

Jazzy

Dec 27, 2015 11:08am

He is no different to any Pakistani politition who we elect year after year but he is damn good bowler and can score more runs than irfan.Mr Latif should leave him alone and enjoy his retirement.

Recommend 0

Rational

Dec 27, 2015 11:16am

@Kash .. Both Wasim and Waqar played under Latif's captaincy. Why he took the captaincy or be in the team with these guys and he also played under Waqar and Wasim as captains ....

Recommend 0

Rational

Dec 27, 2015 11:24am

Mr. Latif you forgetting Qasim Umer... The whistle blower against Imran Khan? Based on your conclusion if Imran Khan deserves the jersey Qasim Umer shouldn't.

Recommend 0

Dec 27, 2015 11:26am

@Sixer from Chakwal you as individual, who give you the right to vote for the public

Recommend 0

Parvez

Dec 27, 2015 12:00pm

It's not nice to discourage the youngster. The majority cricket followers around the world not objecting as much as some from his own country and team mates.For goodness sake , the young man has shown genuine penitence , he has and is working very hard to prove he is worthy of wearing that jersey. Let him who is without sin cast the first stone , otherwise be silent.

Recommend 0

Salahuddin

Dec 27, 2015 12:07pm

He served his punishment for the mistake he made and now totally Deserve to join the team if he is showing good form. The people objecting should look at themselves first if they are free of sins

Recommend 0

Salman

Dec 27, 2015 12:21pm

@Zafarov No he was caught doing spot fixing. U never know how many times he sold his services for fixing the entire matches too. This was done so openly that a british newspaper was able to bust it.

Recommend 0

Rabbani

Dec 27, 2015 12:42pm

All mediocre players who haven't success story are against Amer.

Recommend 0

MAK

Dec 27, 2015 01:19pm

Non sense by the people who have been selecting well known Thugs & Corrupt people again and again.. at least Amir accept the mistake and own the punishment and he also lost his 5Y + Respect, I believe that is enough for him and he truly Deserve to be a part of the PAK Team....Go Get A Green Shirt..We Are With You!!

Recommend 0

MAK

Dec 27, 2015 01:28pm

Recommend 0

Jazzy

Dec 27, 2015 01:30pm

@pakiboy We don't live in a country with high morals .

Recommend 0

Zahid Khan

Dec 27, 2015 01:38pm

I think some do not like to see the return of Amir for their own self interest and it is unfortunate. It is understandable that Amir is very talented and many would not be able to compete with him. The fact is he was only 18 and has already completed the sentence and should be given a second opportunity and I am very much sure he will redeem himself by his performance and bring glory for Pakistan. He has apologized and it was the good thing to do and its time to move forward. Pakistan does not have a bowler of his quality at this time and we all should support him for his return. Yes he can wear the green shirt again and that would be right thing to do!

Recommend 0

Sarah

Dec 27, 2015 02:17pm

@Salman Don't forget he was Man of Series for Pakistan in England in that tour.Other mediocre players were buried in the ground by England with there below par performances.Just open espncric.info and check other mediocre players who cheated cricket fans with below par performance.Or may be they were not good enough to represent the nation at International level.Azhar Ali scored 10 and 12 in that test match.Hafeez must have been zero.

Recommend 0

Sarah

Dec 27, 2015 02:19pm

@Rational You hit the perfect nail on the head with Qasim Umar episode.

Recommend 0

Ahmer

Dec 27, 2015 02:30pm

I was surprised that where had you been and did not say anything on the topic. Finally and as usual an expected comment.

Recommend 0

Khan

Dec 27, 2015 03:22pm

Yasir is banned so now this will make Amer's case even more stronger.

Recommend 0

Mushtaq

Dec 27, 2015 03:24pm

Amir inclusion is a match between performance and old minds.

Recommend 0

Rahim Khawaja

Dec 27, 2015 05:18pm

I am agree with Rashid Latif's comments. Amir has committed a crime and served his ban, he can live his life no issues with it. But making him part of national team whom he betrayed is something we should avoid. It is like a person with a convicted criminal record is recruited in Army or Police. We all know this can never happen because there are rules no matter how good a boy is he will never be recruited. Remember Amir's inclusion will always make doubts on teams performance especially in a close encounters. We should learn from England and Australia they have left likes of Symonds and Piterson behind and are moving ahead. No one is above national interest and pride. Come on can we not produce players like Waseem and Waqar? BCCI is now taking short cuts to include players like Aamir instead of streamlining stone age current selection process so that we can have many more players like our former greats.

Recommend 0

Truth

Dec 27, 2015 05:54pm

I respect you a lot Rashid but disagree on this. After punishment we should not discriminate any one. For some reason our Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) punish two companions for 40 days. And ask everyone to performed social byocatt against them. Even their own family stop talking to them. When Prophet (PBUH) forgive them after certain period of time, every thing become normal for them. No one else brought their mistake even in a discussion. so what lesson we are getting here Mercy, forgiveness after his punishment and Sorry.

Recommend 0

Qadir Khan

Dec 27, 2015 05:57pm

Dear R. Lateef u r respectable cricketer of Pakistan, please be clam down, let follow Islam forgive and forget.

Recommend 0

Vaseem Siddiqi

Dec 27, 2015 06:10pm

@Ahmad Any person involved with match fixing should not be part of PCB and that includes Waqar and Mushtaq, current coaches in Pakistan team. Let us clean up Pakistan cricket and the Nation of corruption.

Recommend 0

Vaseem Siddiqi

Dec 27, 2015 06:19pm

@Dr. Abid Shah Mashwani None of the names mentioned should be occupying prominent positions in Pakistani society and that is the real challenge for us - eradicate corruption for the good of the country. It is a dream which I hope will be achieved very soon.

Recommend 0

Aziz Ahmed

Dec 27, 2015 06:49pm

Only Pakistani players are objecting to Amir's inclusion . No foreign player has objected so far. Amir played in Bangladesh league where he was welcomed. I am sure many other leagues will have no problem.

Recommend 0

Philosopher (from Japan)

Dec 27, 2015 06:50pm

@anees from zaida include IK too. Btw Altaf has no government chair in his entire career.

Recommend 0

Asif Iqbal

Dec 27, 2015 08:24pm

As a Brit of Pakistani origin this quite interesting for a number of reasons: 1. No individual is bigger than any sport. I find the decision of Msrs Hafeez and Azhar reprehensible and deplorable. The PCB has made the decision, if you don't like the decision you know where the door is. 2. Rehabilitation and integration back into society is a must. If Pakistan wants to join the world in these aspects it should not be hold hostage to threats. This applies not only to sport but all aspects of life. 3. I understand Amir is rooting up trees in the various formats, this alone should be enough as on merit alone I believe his figures are up there if not better than the rest of the bowlers. 3. Here in the UK everyone I speak to in cricketing circles believes Amir has served his time and should now be picked on merit alone. PCB take heed and stand by your conviction! Pakistan is already a laughing stock (like it or not), don't pander to the whims of upstarts who think they know best.

Recommend 0

Shehzad

Dec 27, 2015 08:56pm

Aamir was 18 when he committed a mistake. Please give him a rest. If he was in his 20s or 30s, would have been another story. Justice Qayyum was too lenient on our so called legends. They should have paid with life ban as they were not juveniles. Hafeez and Azhar Ali should have kept this discussion internal. Hey are PCB employees and as such are accountable to them. PCB has decided to let Amir in eventually on his performance which is better than them both. I cant help but feel they would play politics a d make sure to undermine Amir.

Recommend 0

shdhsn

Dec 27, 2015 10:17pm

I have rarely seen any positive comments from Latif on PCB's decisions. He reject several opportunities when he was officer and server for PCB and his nation.

Recommend 0

Chishti

Dec 27, 2015 10:52pm

@Syed integrity is more important than talent, all cricketing countries will embarrass Pakistan by denying or delaying VISA to Amir. Latin has stated the most educated and sensible thought.

Recommend 0

Jonty Rhodes

Dec 28, 2015 01:16am

Everyone in Pakistan is jumping to get Amir back in the national team. This enthusiasm and sympathy stems only from two facts - 1) Amir has recently performed well in domestic matches and BPL and 2) Pakistan recently faced drubbing in ODIs and T20s at hands of England and severely lack the bowling power that they desperately need before T20 WC. These are the only 2 real reasons people in Pakistan are rooting for Amir. If he wouldn't have been performing well or if Pakistan already had an established well performing bowling unit, you wouldn't have seen this sympathy and enthusiasm for a person who had put his own country to shame. In those situations, people from Pakistan would have still been asking for PCB to keep him banned from playing for Pakistan again and for putting country to shame. This is not truly an example of change of heart of Pakistani people for Amir but an example of opportunism or compulsion or both.

Recommend 0

Kiwi-Pak

Dec 28, 2015 01:57am

Most of people don't know New Zealand has strictly no visa policy for criminal convictions unless he get character waiver. Chris brown, Mike Tyson etc were refused for visa due to convicted history. If you have past criminal history in any country, you won't get visa. I support Latif and support NZ policy.

Recommend 0

Azhar Malik

Dec 28, 2015 02:03am

@ahha It does not matter what other greats say but it is a matter of principle. When Amir has completed his punishment then why he should be considered for additional / extra/ unreasonable punishment. President Bill Clinton lied on oath and betrayed the confidence reposedon on him by the whole nation and he was excused. In Olympics players are banned for failing dope test for a year or one Olympics and then condoned. Pakistani Hockey team was banned from playing in the next Olympics but subsequently the ban was lifted.

Recommend 0

Azhar Malik

Dec 28, 2015 02:13am

@M.Saeed Great point.

Recommend 0

AHSAN

Dec 28, 2015 04:12am

Totally agree with RL It is obvious that people are frustrated with avg caliber of Pakistan squad and Amir is only available option who is far better than any bowler in the current team. But this will pave the way for match fixing in the future as youngster will have a example that one can indulge himself in match or spot fixing and if caught will be back in action with 3 to 5 years.

Recommend 0

Quamrul Islam

Dec 28, 2015 06:30am

And Latif also does not qualify to utter names like Hanif, Imran, Majid, Bari etc. as they did not do non-cricket like activities on the field as Latif did on live camera.

Recommend 0

Amin

Dec 28, 2015 06:30am

Latif geo aur jeenay do please.

Recommend 0

Hyder

Dec 28, 2015 06:42am

Sir Rashid Latif specialises in creating a storm in the teacup. When he played cricket he never matched the dignity of the legends he has quoted in this statement and has always created controversies that damaged the image of Pakistani cricket. Thanks

Recommend 0

Asad

Dec 28, 2015 09:06am

Imran himself replied this question last night and it was a great answer.

Recommend 0

Shahji

Dec 28, 2015 09:24am

@Hyder The debate about inclusion of The tainted one or trio should not mean to make derogatory remarks about others like Rashid Latif , A proven honest man of honor and dignity. RL was the first person to ring the bell of match fixing and also the first person to write about Spot fixing. No one took notice until the infamous "NO BALL incident". RLCA is the proof of his devotion and passion for the game. Many pages can be written about the achievements of RL. Focus the main topic there is no debate about the talent of Amir or Asif. The debate is If a convicted person, on the base of the talent (with or with out intigrity in doubt) has right to represent the pride of a Nation at any level or Field . After "NO BALL INCIDENT" ,Is the nation ready to face another embarrassments like Visa refusal to the person on National duty,Fans reaction around the World, and may be many many more We can not predict. Is Talent over National pride and honor.

Recommend 0

Shahji

Dec 28, 2015 09:28am

@Haroon Can You please clarify when it happened , When Warren was caught. How the world miss this news

Recommend 0

Adnan Anwar

Dec 28, 2015 10:06am

Rashid Latif nailed it

Recommend 0

Salman

Dec 28, 2015 11:01am

@Sarah The thing is that this is not about who is a better player and who is not. Its about basic principles related to integrity and loyalty. Amir breached them blatantly and very few people know that his black berry data proved that he was in contact with bookies even after the bust up.

Recommend 0

Dec 28, 2015 08:18pm

@Saleem He was actually 19 at the time it happened

Recommend 0

Hussain

Dec 28, 2015 10:01pm

100% agree with Latif, he has a wonderful track record.. he sacrificed his career to clean cricket from such immoral and unethical activities. I believe if PCB had already taken some strict action when Basit and Rashid took the stand and blew the whistle against match fixing.. we won't have seen Amir, Asif and Salman repeating the same..

Recommend 0

arif Wajid

Dec 29, 2015 02:27am

@Syed I dont know why we give importance to lateef comments. He is an honest person but his comments are always make no sense..

Recommend 0

arif Wajid

Dec 29, 2015 02:30am

@Khawar belief me with one match winning performance by Amir will change the topic as I know Pakistani experts how soon they make u turn.

Recommend 0

Video