Left-arm pacer rules out Pakistan return after obtaining British citizenship
Mohammad Amir has confirmed the definitive end of his international career with Pakistan after obtaining British citizenship and a British passport through his wife, Narjis Khan, allowing him to play as a local in English domestic cricket.
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Mohammad Amir retired from international cricket in December 2024 and has now obtained British citizenship via his wife.
Mohammad Amir has ended speculation over a possible return to Pakistan's national team, confirming that his international career is now firmly behind him. The left-arm pacer, who retired from international cricket in December 2024, has obtained British citizenship and a British passport through his wife, Narjis Khan.
Amir explained that his new status means he can no longer be treated as a local Pakistani player in competitions such as the County Championship and The Hundred. Players registered as locals in English domestic cricket must declare that they will not represent another country as a local player.
"I am a British local now. When you play in competitions such as the County Championship and The Hundred as a local player, you have to sign a document stating that you cannot play for another country as a local. So, the Pakistan chapter I had before is now closed," Amir said in an interview with cricket YouTuber Furqan Bhatti.
Amir represented Pakistan in 36 Tests, 61 ODIs and 62 T20Is, taking 119, 81 and 71 wickets respectively. He also played in three World Cups, including the 2019 ODI World Cup, where he was Pakistan's leading wicket-taker with 17 wickets.
A career remembered for big moments
Amir played important roles in Pakistan's 2009 T20 World Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy triumphs. His most memorable performance came in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India, where he took 3-16 and dismissed Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan. Pakistan went on to win by 180 runs.
He also impressed at the 2019 World Cup, taking a five-wicket haul against Australia. While his decision may disappoint supporters who hoped to see him return for the 2027 World Cup, Amir's international career already includes several unforgettable performances.
His move to British citizenship allows him to extend his career in county and franchise cricket, while his achievements for Pakistan remain a major part of his legacy.
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