Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir is eligible for IPL with British citizenship

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has become eligible to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after acquiring British citizenship. The left-arm fast bowler, who retired from international cricket for the second time after the T20 World Cup in 2024, had earlier revealed that he is in the process of obtaining a British passport through his wife Narjis Khan, who is a British citizen.

The process was completed, opening the door for Amir to potentially register as a British overseas player in franchise leagues, including the IPL. The development came into limelight after Amir reposted an Instagram story that mentioned his reported change in nationality status.

Amir himself hinted at this possibility during an appearance on the Pakistani chat show ‘Haarna Mana Hai, where he said he will be eligible to play in the IPL from 2026 if they receive a British passport. The 34-year-old also expressed his desire to play in the league if given the opportunity.

CAN PAKISTANI CRICKETERS PLAY IN IPL?

Pakistani players have effectively been banned from the IPL since the aftermath of the Mumbai terror attacks. Although several Pakistani stars, including Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar, Shoaib Malik and Sohail Tanvir, participated in the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008, no Pakistani player has appeared in the tournament since then.

However, former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has become a rare exception after acquiring British citizenship. Mahmood represented Punjab Kings from 2012 to 2015 and later also played for Kolkata Knight Riders in 2015. As a British passport holder, Mahmood was registered as an English player rather than a Pakistani cricketer, allowing him to participate in the IPL despite the unofficial ban on Pakistani players.

Having played 36 Tests, 61 ODIs and 62 T20Is for Pakistan, Amir remains one of the most prominent fast bowlers in franchise cricket. Known for his ability to swing the new ball and deliver under pressure, the former Pakistan pacer could attract the interest of many IPL franchises if he officially enters the auction pool as a British citizen.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

20 May 2026 20:15 IST