Mohammad Amir confirms his Pakistani chapter is closed: I’m British now

Mohammad Amir has closed the door on a return to Pakistan cricket, declaring that his “Pakistani chapter” is now over after acquiring British citizenship. The former Pakistan fast bowler has become eligible to play locally in England’s domestic competitions, a development that has changed his standing in the game.

Amir, who retired from international cricket in December 2024, explained that his new status as a British resident came with certain conditions. He stated this during an interview with cricket journalist and YouTuber Muhammad Furqan Bhatti and explained why a return to Pakistan cricket is no longer possible with his current classification.

“I’m British now. When you play in competitions like the County Championship and The Hundred as a local player, you have to sign a document saying you can’t play for another country as a local. So the Pakistan chapter I had before is now closed,” said Amir.

Left arm stimulator acquired British citizenship by marriage to Narjis Khanwho is a British citizen. Amir has lived in the UK for several years and has been involved in England domestic and franchise cricket during his post-international career.

AMIR TO PLAY PSL AS A FOREIGN PLAYER

Before confirming that its Pakistan chapter had been closed, Amir confirmed that it had remained open to play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) as a foreign player.

The change means Amir can continue to play in England as a local player while potentially taking part in Pakistan’s premier franchise tournament in the overseas player category. His status became particularly relevant after he represented Rawalpindi in the 2026 PSL.

Amir was also able to benefit from his British citizenship in England domestic cricket. Nottinghamshire have signed him for the 2026 T20 Blast, with the seamer not taking up an overseas slot. He subsequently represented Trent Rockets in The Hundred as a local player.

Amir took 259 wickets in 147 internationals across Tests, ODIs and T20Is and was part of Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy winning campaign.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

30 Aug 2026 18:49 IST