ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s fast bowler Mohammad Amir has announced his decision to retract his retirement from international cricket, expressing his readiness to represent Pakistan in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup following “positive discussions” with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Amir, who had previously called time on his international career in 2020 due to issues with the PCB management at the time, has now made himself available for selection once again.
In a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, Amir affirmed his aspirations to continue playing for Pakistan and highlighted the importance of prioritizing his country over personal decisions.
“I still dream to play for Pakistan,” expressed Amir in his post. “Life brings us to the points where at times we have to reconsider our decisions.”
The 31-year-old bowler acknowledged the constructive dialogue with the PCB, stating that they made him feel valued and emphasized his role in the national team. After consulting with family and well-wishers, Amir declared his availability for consideration in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
I still dream to play for Pakistan!
life brings us to the points where at times we have to reconsider our decisions, 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 after…
— Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) March 24, 2024
“I want to do this for my country as it comes before my personal decisions,” he emphasized. “Donning the green jersey and serving my country has always been, and will continue to be, my greatest aspirations.”
Mohammad Amir’s Performance in PSL 9
Amir’s return to international cricket gained traction following his impressive performance in the recent Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine, where he demonstrated his prowess as a seasoned pacer, particularly excelling with the new ball and in the death overs.
Despite initially stating his reluctance to return to the international arena, Amir’s decision to reverse his retirement opens the possibility of his selection for the 2024 T20 World Cup squad.
Having represented Pakistan in 36 Tests, 61 ODIs, and 50 T20Is, Amir last appeared in an international match in 2020. Notably, he played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s triumphs in the ICC T20 World Cup 2009 and the ICC Champions Trophy 2017.
His memorable spell in the Champions Trophy 2017 final, where he dismantled India’s top-order comprising Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, and Virat Kohli, played a crucial role in Pakistan clinching their maiden title in the prestigious tournament.
