Mohammad Amir Calls Time on Career, Cites Regrets Over India Matches

Mohammad Amir, the former Pakistani pace bowler, announced his retirement from international cricket for the final time, highlighting two major unfulfilled wishes in his cricketing journey. His retirement has stirred considerable reactions as Amir reveals his disappointment over not playing against the Indian cricket team on home turf and missing the chance to host India’s star batsman, Virat Kohli, at his residence in Lahore.

Amir, who made his international debut at the young age of 17 during the 2009 ICC Twenty20 World Cup in the UK, quickly rose to prominence as a key player in Pakistan’s bowling lineup. A significant part of his career included memorable performances against India, such as effectively troubling the Indian team during the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final. Despite these highlights, Amir expressed a sense of loss over the opportunity to face Indian batsmen like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma on home soil, especially after India’s decision not to tour Pakistan for the upcoming Champions Trophy in 2025. This decision has disappointed numerous Pakistani fans eager to witness cricketing legends such as Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Rishab Pant, and Jasprit Bumrah in action on their home grounds.

Beyond the cricketing field, Amir has maintained cordial relations with Indian players. He respects Virat Kohli immensely, a sentiment bolstered by the mutual admiration they hold for each other’s skills. Amir cherishes a bat gifted to him by Kohli, symbolizing the respect shared between the two athletes. This camaraderie is further reflected in Amir’s admiration for Kohli’s batting prowess and his acknowledgment of Kohli’s appreciation for his bowling capabilities.

Looking forward to the future, Amir aims to capitalize on his UK status and acquire a UK passport by February 2025. This move could facilitate his participation in the Indian Premier League by 2026, marking a significant shift in his cricketing engagements. While relocating to the UK, Amir hopes to finally host Kohli there, considering both frequently visit London.

In concluding his cricketing chapter, Mohammad Amir leaves with resonant memories and respected friendships. His career has been marked by noteworthy accomplishments and shared respect across cricket’s competitive boundaries, with a notable void of matches against India on Pakistani soil persisting as a bittersweet aspect of his legacy.