Ex-Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has announced that he will be available to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) from next year, courtesy of his anticipated UK passport. Amir, who was last seen playing for Pakistan in international cricket, said he wants to play in the world’s largest T20 franchise league.
“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,” Amir told the “Haarna Mana Hai” chat show.
Amir’s UK Citizenship Opens IPL Doors
Amir’s wife, Narjis, is British, and the left-arm pacer is procuring a UK passport. Only Indian or overseas players are allowed to play in the IPL, and with foreign citizenship, Amir will be able to join the league as an overseas player.
Pakistan players were featured in the initial IPL in 2008 but were subsequently disallowed from competition following the terror attacks in Mumbai. Amir might, however, be the very first Pakistan-born player to set foot in IPL since then.
Ahmed Shehzad Pines for Amir at RCB
Former Pakistani batter Ahmed Shehzad thinks Amir can change the game at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), a team which has been at pains with their bowling in previous seasons.
“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,” Shehzad stated.
Mohammad Amir Remembers Special Relationship with Virat Kohli
Mohammad Amir also shared his memories of interactions with ex-India captain Virat Kohli. Kohli had once presented Amir with his bat, which Amir still holds dear.
“Virat gifted me his bat and I was overwhelmed by his action,” Amir reminisced. “I have always been a great admirer of his batting and he is of my bowling. I played some good knocks with his bat,” Amir stated.
While Amir awaits an IPL debut in 2026, the question remains big—will any franchise, especially RCB, make the most of the chance to sign him?