Mohammad Amir, the left-arm fast bowler from Pakistan, has been making headlines recently over speculation that he might leave Pakistan to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL). But is there any truth to these rumors? Letโs uncover the facts and analyze Amirโs future in international cricket and the IPL.
Why Canโt Pakistani Players Play in the IPL?
Since 2008, Pakistani players have been banned from participating in the IPL due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. While players from all over the world participate in the league, Pakistani cricketers have been unable to join since the first season.
Why Is Mohammad Amir Interested in the IPL?
Amir, who has been living in the United Kingdom since 2020 after marrying British citizen Narjis Khan, is in the process of acquiring UK citizenship. If he obtains a British passport, he could potentially enter the IPL as a foreign player, bypassing the restrictions on Pakistani cricketers.
Is Mohammad Amir Really Leaving Pakistan?
Mohammad Amir retired from international cricket in 2020, citing issues with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the coaching staff. However, he made a comeback for the 2024 T20 World Cup. Reports suggest that Amirโs main reason for seeking UK citizenship is personal rather than cricket-related.
In a December 2024 interview, Amir hinted at the possibility of playing in the IPL in 2026, stating, โMaybe in 2026, I will be able to play in the IPL.โ However, he has not officially announced any decision to permanently leave Pakistan for this reason.
What Are the Chances of Amir Playing in the IPL?
For Amir to play in the IPL, two things need to happen:
- He must acquire British citizenship.
- He must receive approval from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and be picked by an IPL franchise.
If both conditions are met, Amir could play in the IPL as a foreign player. However, his inclusion would still depend on whether franchises are interested in signing him.
FAQs About Mohammad Amir and the IPL
1. Can Mohammad Amir play in the IPL if he gets British citizenship? Yes, if Amir gets a British passport, he can register as a foreign player and enter the IPL auction, similar to other overseas cricketers.
2. Has Mohammad Amir confirmed leaving Pakistan? No, he has not made any official statement about permanently leaving Pakistan for the IPL. His citizenship application is a personal matter.
3. Will Amirโs past controversies affect his IPL chances? Although Amir was banned for spot-fixing in 2010, he has since made a strong comeback. If an IPL franchise is interested, his past issues may not be a major hurdle.
4. When will Mohammad Amir be eligible to play in the IPL? If he obtains British citizenship, he could be eligible for the IPL by 2026.