Early Life and Cricket Beginnings
Mohammad Amir, born on April 13, 1992, in Gujar Khan, Punjab, Pakistan, emerged as a talented left-arm fast bowler and left-handed batsman. At the age of 17, he made his mark in international cricket, debuting against Sri Lanka in July 2009 during the ICC World Twenty20. Amir’s idol was the legendary Wasim Akram, whose style of play inspired Amir’s journey into cricket.
Spot-Fixing Controversy and Comeback
Amir’s promising career was marred by controversy when he was embroiled in a spot-fixing scandal in 2010. He was found guilty of deliberately bowling no-balls for monetary gain. This led to a five-year ban from cricket, a criminal conviction, and a prison sentence. Despite this setback, Amir made a comeback to domestic cricket in 2015 after his ban was lifted early.
International Success and Achievements
Amir’s return to international cricket in 2016 was met with mixed reactions, including taunts from fans. However, he quickly regained form and played crucial roles in Pakistan’s victories. Notably, he was instrumental in Pakistan’s triumphs in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy and the 2019 Cricket World Cup. Amir’s bowling prowess and ability to perform under pressure were evident in high-stakes matches against top teams.
Retirement and Resurgence
In December 2020, Amir announced his retirement from international cricket, citing issues with the Pakistan Cricket Board. However, he reversed his decision in March 2024, eager to participate in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. His return marked a resurgence, demonstrating his dedication and passion for the game.
Domestic and T20 Stardom
Amir’s domestic and T20 career has been illustrious, with stints in various teams like Karachi Kings, Essex, and Chittagong Vikings. He showcased exceptional talent in leagues like the Bangladesh Premier League and the Lanka Premier League, earning accolades for his performance.
Personal Life
Off the field, Amir is a family man, married to Narjis Amir, with whom he has three daughters. Despite challenges and controversies, Amir’s journey in cricket reflects resilience and determination, making him a notable figure in Pakistan’s cricket history.
Mohammad Amir’s story is one of redemption and perseverance, showing that setbacks can pave the way for remarkable comebacks. As he continues his journey in cricket, fans eagerly anticipate his contributions to the sport on the global stage.
Statistics Table
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| First-Class Matches | 261 wickets in 149 Matches at an average of 27.01 |
| T20Is | 61 wickets in 52 Matches at an average of 20.91 |
| Test Matches | 119 wickets in 36 Matches at an average of 30.48 |
| ODIs | 81 wickets in 61 Matches at an average of 29.63 |
| International Debut | 2009 ICC World Twenty20 |
| Major Victories | 2009 ICC World Twenty20, 2017 ICC Champions Trophy |
| Notable Achievements | Dismissing key Indian batsmen in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final |