Is Mohammad Amir going to play IPL next year?

Express Tribune

08-03-2025

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Veteran Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has expressed his hope of playing in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, revealing his desire to represent Virat Kohli's team, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
Amir, who has played 36 Tests, 61 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 62 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), is optimistic about becoming eligible to play, citing his plans to secure a UK passport through his wife, Narjis, a UK citizen.
Speaking on a private TV show, Amir shared that if given the opportunity, he would not hesitate to seize the chance to play in the IPL.
'If I get the opportunity to play next year, I would definitely play,' he said, adding that RCB was his favorite team, making the prospect of joining them particularly appealing.
Amir's admiration for Kohli extends beyond their on-field battles. He recalled a gesture from the former India captain, who once gifted him his bat, with which Amir played some memorable innings.
'Virat gifted me his bat, and I was overwhelmed by his action. I've always been a great admirer of his batting, and he is a fan of my bowling. I played some good knocks with his bat,' Amir reminisced.
Ahmed Shehzad, also present on the show, endorsed Amir's potential impact on RCB, calling him a perfect addition to their side.
Shehzad stated, 'RCB needs a bowler like Amir to fix their bowling woes. They have a strong batting unit, but their bowling has always been a concern. If Amir plays for RCB, they will win the title.'
The IPL, which began in 2008, initially featured Pakistan players, including top names like Shoaib Akhtar, Shahid Afridi, and Sohail Tanvir. However, after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, Pakistani players were banned from participating in the tournament.
Though there have been occasional Pakistani mentors in subsequent editions, no Pakistani cricketer has played in the IPL since. Amir's potential return marks a shift in this longstanding absence.