Inzamam-ul-Haq Reveals What Mohammad Amir Needs To Do To Earn A Recall After World Cup Snub, Says "If He Wants To Play..."

Pakistan chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq has said the doors of the Pakistan team are still not closed for Mohammad Amir. While announcing the Pakistan squad for World Cup 2023, the former Pakistan captain revealed what Mohammad Amir and other out-of-favor cricketers need to do to earn a recall from the team.

The left-arm pacer sensationally retired his announcement in December 2020 after falling out with former coaches Misbah-ul-Haq and Waqar Younis. Earlier this year, former PCB chief Najam Sethi stated that Mohammad Amir could still play for the Pakistan team but the left-arm pacer has stayed away from international cricket so far.

But recent reports suggested that the fast bowler might earn a shock recall from the Pakistan team for the upcoming World Cup. The reports emerged after Naseem Shah was ruled out of the tournament owing to a shoulder injury. With the likes of Mohammad Hasnain and Ihsanullah not fit either, several reports from Pakistan suggested that Mohammad Amir was in contention for a recall.

However, the Inzamam-ul-Haq-led selection panel decided against recalling the fast bowler. They have replaced Naseem Shah with Hasan Ali who too has fallen down the pecking order in recent times. The right-arm pacer has not played an ODI since June last year.

Inzamam-ul-Haq on Mohammad Amir’s comeback:

After announcing the squad, Inzamam-ul-Haq spoke about Mohammad Amir and revealed what the bowler needs to do to don the Pakistan jersey again. Speaking to the media, the former Pakistan captain said that Mohammad Amir was not included in the squad because he had retired from international cricket. He also stated that the bowler needs to play first-class cricket to make a comeback.

“Amir has been a great cricketer. He has taken retirement. If he wants to play for Pakistan, he will have to play first-class cricket and perform there. If he performs then he will definitely be considered. Selection door is not closed for any player,” Inzamam said.

“The same is the case for Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shan Masood and Imad Wasim,” he added.

Amir is currently plying his trade in the Caribbean Premier League and has looked in fine form. In 9 games so far, he has picked up 15 wickets and is the third-highest wicket-taker.