Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir is now eligible to play in the Indian Premier League. Yes, you heard it right. Amir has received British citizenship, which he had earlier said that he was trying for a British passport through his wife, Narjis Khan, who is a British citizen.
Amir posted about the change in his nationality status on Instagram, and this development makes him eligible to register for franchise leagues around the world including IPL.
Amir had earlier hinted that he could become eligible to play in the IPL from 2026 if he gets his British passport. Speaking on the Pakistani chat show ‘Haarna Mana Hai’, the 34-year-old said he would be open to playing in the tournament if an opportunity comes his way.
“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 not played in the IPL since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. In the inaugural IPL season in 2008, several Pakistan cricketers such as Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar, Shoaib Malik and Sohail Tanvir featured in the league, but no player from Pakistan has participated since then.
One exception was former Pakistan allrounder Azhar Mahmood, who played in the IPL after becoming a British citizen. Since he held a British passport, he was registered as an English player and represented Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab) in 2012 and 2013, before later playing for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2015.
Amir, who represented Pakistan in 36 Tests, 61 ODIs and 62 T20Is, continues to be one of the most sought-after fast bowlers in franchise cricket around the world.
