Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has been allowed to return to domestic cricket under the auspices of the PCB with immediate effect. Amir’s five-year ban for his role in spot-fixing during Pakistan’s tour of England in 2010 was due to end on September 2.
The ICC said after its board meeting in Dubai: “The ACSU Chairman [Ronnie Flanagan] had exercised the powers vested in him under Article 6.8 of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code after he was satisfied that Amir had cooperated with the ACSU by fully disclosing his part in the matters that led to his disqualification, admitting his guilt, showing remorse and cooperating with the Unit’s ongoing investigations and by recording messages for the ACSU education sessions.”
Soon after the news of his re-admittance, Amir said it would not take him long to get match ready. “I have been playing some unregistered club cricket but the sort of body I have I think it won’t take much time to get the momentum. I think a month and half will be enough for me to stand up. Being a fast bowler, I have all the varieties and ability to bowl both inswing and outswing, so what I need now is to work hard.”
Confirmation that Amir’s return is limited to cricket overseen by the PCA ends any intention by Amir, or his representatives, to seek a deal in English cricket – a prospect, in any case, that might have run foul of visa problems.
The PCB had written a letter to the ICC in November, requesting the governing body to review the conditions of Amir’s ban. As per the new anti-corruption code, banned players could be allowed to return to domestic cricket before the end of their penalty if they meet certain criteria. The ICC later interviewed Amir to determine if they could find any difference in the player.
Mohammad Amir return to cricket is most welcome and surely the cricket lovers allover will support him all the way. Let us hope to see him in action with full speed and his old armoury. Good luck and God bless
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