KARACHI: Fast bowler Mohammad Amir announced his decision to end his retirement from international cricket on Sunday, expressing his desire to represent Pakistan once again, particularly in the T20 format leading up to this year’s T20 World Cup.
Expressing his “unwavering desire to don the green jersey once again”, Amir took to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, stating: “I still dream to play for Pakistan. Life brings us to points where we have to reconsider our decisions.”
Amir, who stepped away from the game in 2020 citing disagreements with the then Pakistan team management, also mentioned “positive discussions” with the country’s cricket board that influenced his choice to make himself available for selection.
“There has been few positive discussions between myself and the PCB where they respectfully made me feel that I was needed and can still play for Pakistan,” said the 31-year old. “After discussing with family and well-wishers, I declare that I am available to be considered for upcoming T20 WC.”
Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi had earlier clarified that the decision regarding Amir’s return lied with the newly-formed selection committee, highlighting their role in shaping the team’s future.
Meanwhile, Amir’s decision has prompted a shift in plans for the English county side Derbyshire — which Amir represents — for the upcoming season.
Former Pakistan team director and the current Head of Cricket of Derbyshire Mickey Arthur expressed disappointment at the timing of Amir’s decision.
“While this is disappointing on the eve of the season, I respect Amir’s decision following recent conversations with the Pakistan Cricket Board,” Arthur said in a statement. “I know he had aspirations to return to international cricket if the opportunity would arise.
Amir, a Champions Trophy winner for Pakistan in 2017, was last seen in action during the recently-concluded season of the HBL Pakistan Super League, in which he bagged 10 wickets in nine games at an impressive economy rate of 8.41 for Quetta Gladiators.
Amir’s decision to take his retirement back coincides with that of Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim, who had made the announcement a day earlier.
Published in Dawn, March 25th, 2024
