Amir, Wasim return to Pakistan national team

Apr. 9 - Having reversed their decisions of retiring from international cricket, fast bowler Mohammad Amir and left-arm spinner Imad Wasim were recalled to the 17-member Pakistan Squad for the five-match Twenty20I series against New Zealand, starting on April 18.

The 10-day series will feature three games in Rawalpindi and two games in Lahore.

Amir, who was convicted for spot-fixing charges and also briefly did jail time in England, last played international cricket in 2020 before calling it quits to ply his trade in T20 leagues.

He retired from international cricket due to his differences with erstwhile coaches Misbah-ul-Haq and Waqar Younis.

Imad, a spin all-rounder, had retired from international cricket in November 2023 but took back his retirement after persuasion from the board and selectors after he had a productive Pakistan Super League (PSL), in which his team won the title.

The selection committee comprising Yousuf, Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Wahab Riaz and Bilal Afzal told media that those who have performed consistently have been rewarded.

They also called up uncapped batters Usman Khan, Irfan Khan Niazi and spinner Abrar Ahmed.

Wahab defended Amir’s selection who was roundly criticised recently by former Test captain and commentator, Ramiz Raja, for his role in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal.

Ramiz had said if he had been in charge and even if his son had done spot-fixing, he would never have allowed him back into the team.

The team selection was done by majority voting for the first time in Pakistan’s cricket history. In the past, the chief selector had the final say. (Agencies)