Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has become eligible to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after acquiring British citizenship. The left-arm fast bowler, who retired from international cricket for the second time after the 2024 T20 World Cup, had earlier revealed that he was in the process of obtaining a UK passport through his wife, Narjis Khan, who is a British citizen.
The process has been completed, opening the door for Amir to potentially register as a British overseas player in franchise leagues, including the IPL. The development came into focus after Amir reposted an Instagram story that mentioned his reported change in nationality status.
Amir himself had hinted at the possibility during an appearance on the Pakistani chat show ‘Haarna Mana Hai’, where he said he would be eligible to play in the IPL from 2026 if he received his British passport. The 34-year-old also expressed his desire to feature in the league if given an opportunity.
“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 had said.
Pakistan players have effectively been barred from the IPL since the aftermath of the Mumbai terror attacks. Although several Pakistan stars, including Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar, Shoaib Malik and Sohail Tanvir, participated in the inaugural IPL season in 2008, no Pakistan player has featured in the tournament since then.
However, former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood became a rare exception after obtaining British citizenship. Mahmood represented Punjab Kings in 2012 and 2013 and later also played for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2015. Because he held a British passport, Mahmood was registered as an English player rather than a Pakistani cricketer, allowing him to participate in the IPL despite the ban on Pakistan players.
Amir, who played 36 Tests, 61 ODIs and 62 T20Is for Pakistan, remains one of the most high-profile fast bowlers in franchise cricket. Known for his ability to swing the new ball and deliver under pressure, Amir could be a handy addition to teams if he officially enters the auction pool as a British citizen.
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Source: India Today
