Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has gained British citizenship and a passport, allowing him to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the future. At 34 years old, he qualified for citizenship through his wife, Narjis Khan, who is a British citizen.
After the inaugural IPL season, Pakistani players were banned from competing in the league. However, Amir can now register as a British overseas player in various franchise competitions globally, including the IPL. He has shown interest in joining one of the top franchise leagues.
“By next year, I will have the opportunity to play in the IPL, and if given the chance, then why not? I will play in the IPL,” Mohammad Amir mentioned earlier, as reported by India Today.
Although he has obtained British citizenship, it remains to be seen if any of the 10 IPL franchises will select him during the auction, given his background as a former Pakistan International.
It’s important to note that one Pakistani cricketer has played in the IPL after gaining British citizenship. Former all-rounder Azhar Mahmood, who last represented Pakistan in 2007, received UK citizenship and was picked by Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) before the 2012 season. He played two seasons with Punjab, making 22 appearances and scoring 382 runs while taking 29 wickets. He also played one match for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2015.
Pakistani players were barred from participating in the IPL following the 2008 terror attacks in Mumbai. However, they took part in the inaugural season, with the champions Rajasthan Royals fielding three players from Pakistan, including Purple Cap winner Sohail Tanvir, Younis Khan, and Kamran Akmal. Other notable Pakistan internationals in that first season included Shoaib Akhtar (KKR), Shahid Afridi (Deccan Chargers), and Misbah-ul-Haq (Royal Challengers Bengaluru).