Amir Back for “Unfinished work”:Fueled by a desire to rectify the past, Pakistan’s pace bowler Mohammad Amir is back in the national team jersey with a singular goal – conquering the upcoming T20 World Cup.
The 32-year-old’s return is a story of redemption. After a ban for spot-fixing in 2011, Amir’s career was derailed at its peak. However, after serving his suspension and a brief retirement, he’s been given another chance.
“There’s a sense of unfinished work for me,” Amir revealed in a recent interview. “Winning the World Cup is my short-term objective.”
Amir’s talent was undeniable from a young age. He impressed across formats after breaking into the Pakistani side in 2009, playing a pivotal role in their T20 World Cup triumph that year.
The following year, his career was tragically disrupted by the spot-fixing scandal. Despite a return in 2016, inconsistencies plagued him, leading to his retirement in 2020.
Now, brimming with renewed motivation, Amir finds himself part of a formidable Pakistani pace attack alongside Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf. This potent bowling unit makes Pakistan strong contenders for the World Cup.
“The trust the board and team management have shown in me is a huge motivator,” Amir expressed. “There’s no substitute for the feeling of representing your country after a four-year absence.”
A recent T20 series against New Zealand offered glimpses of his resurgent form, where he bagged three wickets in a tightly contested 2-2 draw.
“Honestly, I felt fitter than in 2019,” Amir declared. “Peak performance hinges on fitness, and I’m determined to keep improving.”
Before the World Cup, Pakistan takes on Ireland in a three-match T20 series in Dublin, followed by a T20 showdown against the reigning champions, England.
From Village Boy to Hero Seeking Redemption
Born in Punjab’s Changa Bangial village, cricket was Amir’s passion, instilled by his five elder brothers. His raw talent was discovered by the legendary Wasim Akram at a fast bowling camp when Amir was just 15.
Choosing to focus on the positive aspects of his career, Amir fondly remembers the 2009 World Cup victory. “Those memories are forever etched in my mind,” he said, referring to his six wickets in the tournament.
“Being part of a champion team after my first selection was unforgettable,” Amir reminisced. “The reception back in my village – the honking cars and showered flowers – was truly special.”
“I’m fortunate to be playing again,” he concluded. “Back then, I was the youngest. Now, I have another shot at World Cup glory, and that’s the goal for both me and the team.”