Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has denied speculation that he could play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) under his British nationality after registering with the Afghanistan Premier League (APL) as a British citizen. The left-arm pacer recently signed up for the APL as a British citizen, sparking speculation that he could take the same route to join the IPL, where Pakistani players and citizens are unable to play.
The 36-match Test, 61 ODI and 62 T20I veteran took on British nationality earlier this year. While registering for the Afghanistan Premier League, he was compared to former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood, who played in the IPL after gaining British nationality. But Amir has since ended the speculation with a social media post.
Mohammad Amir dismisses IPL registration rumors
On Monday, Amir took to X to clear the air over reports claiming he was about to confirm his registration for the IPL.
“Hi guys, just to confirm that the news about the IPL is not true,” he tweeted.
Amir played for a local team in The Hundred earlier this year, after he was initially unsold in the tournament's player draft as an overseas cricketer. He married Narjis Khan, which gave him British nationality and the right to play certain domestic tournaments as a local player.
He had previously spoken about his own situation as a British citizen, highlighting the rules when it comes to playing in English domestic tournaments.
“I am now a British resident. When you compete in tournaments like the County Championship or The Hundred as a homegrown player, you have to sign a form agreeing not to represent a different country as a homegrown player. Therefore, my Pakistan phase was over,” Amir had stated.
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Azhar Mahmood also played in the IPL following British citizenship.
Amir's citizenship was likened to that of former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood, who played in the IPL from 2012 to 2015 after receiving British citizenship.
Mahmood first signed by Punjab Kings, then known as Kings XI Punjab, and also played for Kolkata Knight Riders in the tournament. This was an example of how a former Pakistan international was able to play in the IPL after acquiring foreign citizenship.
Yet, it is Amir's latest clarification that makes it clear that he has no intention of enrolling on the Indian league at present, of all the buzz about him becoming part of the Indian league.
Mohammad Amir's international career and retirement
Amir will retire from all international cricket after the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Across his international career, the lanky fast bowler represented Pakistan in 36 Tests, 61 One Day Internationals and 62 T20 Internationals.
Throughout his career, Amir was known for his skill to produce swing at pace and make life difficult for the top-order batsmen. He contributed significantly to Pakistan's accomplishments in all three formats. Despite the end of his international career, he still remains a sought-after player for T20 franchises across the world.