‘The Pakistani chapter I had before is now closed’: Mohammad Amir calls himself a ‘British local’

Mohammad Amir. (Photo File) Mohammad Amir has ended speculation over a possible return to the Pakistan national team, confirming that his international career is now firmly behind him.The left-arm pacer, who retired from international cricket in December 2024, acquired British citizenship and a British passport through his wife Narjis Khan.Amir explained that his new status meant he could no longer be treated as a local Pakistani player in competitions such as the County Championship and The Hundred. Players registered as domestic in England domestic cricket must declare that they will not represent another country as domestic players.“I’m a British local 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,” Amir said in an interview with cricket YouTuber Furqan Bhatti.Amir represented Pakistan in 36 Tests, 61 ODIs and 62 T20Is, taking 119, 81 and 71 wickets respectively. He has also played in three World Cups, including the 2019 ODI World Cup, where he was Pakistan’s top wicket-taker with 17 wickets.

A career remembered for great moments

Amir played an important role in Pakistan’s 2009 T20 World Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy triumphs. His most memorable performance came in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India where he took 3-16 to dismiss Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan. Pakistan won by 180 runs.He also impressed at the 2019 World Cup, taking five wickets against Australia.While his decision may disappoint fans who were hoping he would return for the 2027 World Cup, Amir’s international career already includes some memorable performances. His transition to British citizenship allows him to extend his career in county and franchise cricket, while his achievements for Pakistan remain a major part of his legacy.