Former Pakistani pacer Mohammad Amir eyes IPL contract in 2026
What's the story
Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has revealed his desire to get an IPL contract in 2026.
The pacer made this revelation during a chat on the show "Haarna Mana Hai."
He said, "Next year tak meri opportunity ban rahi agar hua to kyu nahi (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."
Notably, Amir retired from international cricket in December 2024.
Eligibility
Amir's path to IPL: UK passport
Amir's participation in the IPL depends on his eligibility, which is subject to him getting a UK passport.
Meanwhile, this would be facilitated by his wife Narjis's UK citizenship.
The Pakistani cricketer was excited about the opportunity and said he would love to explore it if given the chance.
His ambition highlights his wish to play at the highest levels of cricketing leagues around the world.
Response
Amir addresses potential criticism for IPL participation
When asked if he would face backlash for thinking about an IPL contract, Amir cited the examples of other Pakistani cricketers.
He said that although they were banned from playing in the IPL, a few former players remained associated in other ways.
Respect
Amir's admiration for Virat Kohli
Amir also spoke about his respect for Indian cricket star, Virat Kohli.
He remembered the time when Kohli gifted him his bat before the T20 World Cup match in Kolkata in 2016.
"Virat is great and admires talent," said Amir. "Virat gifted me his bat and I was overwhelmed by his action."
"I have always been a great admirer of his batting and he is of my bowling. I played some good knocks with his bat," he further added.
IPL aspirations
Amir's ambitions extend to RCB
Amir also said he would love to play for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
Another guest on the show, Ahmed Shehzad, said Amir could be the answer to RCB's first IPL title.
"RCB need a bowler like Amir to fix their bowling woes," he said. "They have a good batting unit but their bowling has always been a problem. If Amir plays for RCB, they will win the title."
Stats
A look at the pacer's T20I and T20 stats
Across 62 T20Is, Amir bagged 71 wickets at an average of 21.94.
He also boasts an economy rate of 7.07 in 61 innings, including one four-wicket haul.
According to ESPNcricinfo, his best figures are worth 4/13 (vs Sri Lanka).
Meanwhile, he has amassed 364 T20 wickets at 22.60, alongside eight four-wicket hauls and two five-wicket hauls.