Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has made a big announcement that has cricket fans buzzing with excitement. He has revealed his intention to participate in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL), a move that could be historic for Pakistani cricketers. If things go as planned, Amir could be the first Pakistan-born player to feature in the IPL in over a decade.
During a recent TV interview, Amir confirmed that he plans to enter the IPL auction in 2026. He stated, “By next year, I will have the opportunity to play in the IPL, and if given the chance, why not? I will play in the IPL.” His statement has sparked widespread discussion, as Pakistani players have been absent from the tournament since the inaugural IPL season in 2008.
How Can Mohammad Amir Play in the IPL?
Amir’s eligibility for the IPL depends on a key factor—his UK citizenship. The left-arm pacer has been living in the United Kingdom, where his wife, Narjis, holds British citizenship. He is in the process of acquiring a British passport, which he expects to receive by the end of 2025. Once he becomes a British citizen, he will no longer be categorized as a Pakistani player under IPL rules. Instead, he will be eligible to enter the auction as an overseas player.
This route has been taken before. Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood also obtained British citizenship and played in the IPL for Kings XI Punjab and Kolkata Knight Riders. Amir appears to be following the same path, aiming to open doors for more Pakistani-born players to participate in the IPL in the future.
A Major Opportunity for Mohammad Amir
Playing in the IPL would be a huge career milestone for Amir. The IPL is the most competitive and financially rewarding T20 league in the world, offering exposure to top-tier cricket. If he gets picked in the 2026 IPL auction, it will be a golden opportunity for him to showcase his talent on a global stage.
Amir, who retired from international cricket in 2020 due to issues with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has been playing in various franchise leagues worldwide. However, the IPL remains the biggest stage for T20 cricketers, and Amir’s potential inclusion could change the dynamics for Pakistani-born players who aspire to be part of the tournament.
What This Means for Pakistani Cricketers
If Amir successfully enters the IPL, it might inspire other Pakistani players to explore alternative routes to play in the league. The IPL has been off-limits to Pakistani players since 2009 due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. However, Amir’s strategy could set a precedent for others to follow.
With the cricketing world keeping a close eye on his journey, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether Mohammad Amir’s dream of playing in the IPL becomes a reality. For now, all eyes are on his British citizenship process, which holds the key to unlocking a new and exciting chapter in his career.
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