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December 22, 2024
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Mohammad Amir, the Pakistani left-arm fast bowler, has had a career replete with both remarkable achievements and significant controversies. His journey in international cricket has been a roller coaster, marked by a recent announcement of his second retirement from the international cricket, once again stepping away from the International stage after a brief comeback.
Amir had initially retired from international cricket in December 2020, at the age of 28, citing “mental torture” form the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) management. However, in a surprising turn of events, he reversed this decision in March 2024, making himself available for selection for the T20 World Cup that year. This decision was spurred by discussions with the PCB under the new regime led by chairman Mohsin Naqvi, indicating a fresh start for the pacer who had been banned for five years due to a spot-fixing scandal in 2010.
Amir’s career began with a bang, making his international debut in June 2009 during the T20 World Cup, where he was instrumental in Pakistan’s championship win. His early years showcased him as a prodigious talent, taking 259 wickets in 147 international matches across all formats. His comeback after the spot-fixing ban was equally notable; he returned in 2016 and played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy victory, particularly remembered for his spell in the final against India where he dismissed key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shikhar Dhawan.
Just months after his return, Amir announced his retirement from international cricket once again on December 14, 2024. This decision came shortly after Pakistan’s exit from the T20 World Cup, where Amir picked up seven wickets in four matches. His statement upon retiring was poignant, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to represent Pakistan and his desire to see the next generation take the sport to new heights. He cited the difficulty of the decision but emphasized its inevitability, thanking the PCB, his family, friends and fans for their support over the years.
Amir’s career has been a mix of highs and lows. His skill on the field was undeniable, with a bowling average of 21.4 in T20Is and significant contributions in other formats. However his career was marred by the spot-fixing scandal, which not only led to a ban but also stained his reputation. His return was a testament to his resilience, but his re-retirement might signal an end to his international cricket journey, focusing perhaps on T20 leagues where he could continue to ply his trade.