Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has been granted British citizenship. This left-handed bowler is eligible to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He retired from international cricket for the second time after the 2024 T20 World Cup. He had earlier mentioned that he is trying to get a UK passport as his wife Nargis Khan is a British citizen.
Now, once the process is complete, Amir can register his name as a British overseas player in franchise leagues like the IPL. The news comes after she recently shared a story on Instagram about her change of citizenship. He gave this hint on a Pakistani TV show called Harna Mana Hai. He said that if he gets a British passport, he will be eligible to play in the IPL from 2026 and he will definitely play in the IPL if he gets a chance.
Pakistani players have been banned from the IPL since the Mumbai terror attacks. Pakistani players like Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar, Shoaib Malik and Sohail Tanveer played in the first edition of the IPL in 2008, but no Pakistani player has played in the tournament since then. But former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mehmood was a rare exception. He played for Punjab Kings in 2012 and 2013 and Kolkata Knight Riders in 2015 as a British passport holder.
Mohammad Amir played 36 Tests, 61 ODIs and 62 T20Is for Pakistan. He is best known in franchise cricket for swinging the new ball and bowling beautifully under pressure. If he officially enters the IPL auction as a British citizen, he can be a very lucrative and important player for any team.
