Former Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Amir is setting his sights on the Indian Premier League, expressing his eagerness to participate in the world’s richest franchise cricket league. Having announced his retirement from international cricket for the second time last year, the left-arm pacer believes he will be eligible to play in the IPL by 2026. If the opportunity arises, he is ready to seize it.
“Next year tak meri opportunity ban rahi hai, agar hua to why not (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 stated during an appearance on a sports show.
Pakistani players last featured in the IPL during its inaugural edition in 2008, but they were subsequently barred from participating due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. However, former Pakistani all-rounder Azhar Mahmood managed to play in the league for Punjab Kings in 2012 and 2013 and later for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2015, owing to his United Kingdom citizenship.
Amir, whose wife Narjis holds UK citizenship, is hopeful of obtaining a UK passport soon. This would open the doors for him to play in the IPL, following the same path as Azhar Mahmood.
During the show, Amir was asked which IPL team he would prefer to play for if given the opportunity. Without hesitation, he named Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as his preferred franchise.
Pakistani batter Ahmad Shahzad, who was part of the panel, supported Amir’s choice and emphasized that RCB needs a bowler like him to strengthen their squad. “RCB need a bowler like Amir to fix their bowling woes. They have a good batting unit, but their bowling has always been a problem. If Amir plays for RCB, they will win the title,” Shahzad remarked.
With Amir’s aspirations now in the spotlight, all eyes are on his UK citizenship process and whether IPL 2026 could mark the beginning of a new chapter in his cricketing career.
