Mohammad Amir announces retirement from Test cricket
Mohammad Amir has hung in boots in cricket’s most extended format to focus his time and efforts in the limited-overs formats of the game. The 27-year-old stated that he took the decision considering the number of young pacers that have been rising through the ranks and deserve a fair opportunity.
Pakistani left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir has called quits on his international red ball cricket career in a surprise announcement. The 27-year-old has represented his nation in the format in 36 matches and taken an astounding 119 wickets, including four five-wicket hauls. He last played in a Test for Pakistan in January against the Proteas, taking two wickets in either innings.
"It has been an honour to represent Pakistan in the pinnacle and traditional format of the game. I, however, have decided to move away from the longer version so I can concentrate on white-ball cricket," Amir said in a statement according to Cricbuzz.
He made his Test debut at the raw age of 17 against Sri Lankan and ended up taking six wickets in the match, including those of celebrated legends Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara. He would later become the youngest bowler ever to record 50 Test scalps.
"It has not been an easy decision to make and I have been thinking about this for some time. But with the ICC World Test Championship commencing shortly, and Pakistan boasting some very exciting young fast bowlers, it is appropriate that I call on my time in Test cricket so that the selectors can plan accordingly,” Amir added.
He was banned for five years in 2010 for a match-fixing scandal but has since made a comeback in all three formats of the game, retaining his reputation as one of the world’s most lethal bowlers. PCB cricketing director Wasim Khan heaped praise on him before acknowledging his decision to call it time.
"Amir has been one of the most exciting and talented left-arm fast bowlers in Test cricket in recent times. He overcame adversity as a young cricketer and came back stronger not only as a cricketer but also as a better human being. His skill on the field, and his personality will be missed in the dressing room in the longer format," Wasim Khan said.
"However, we respect his decision and look forward to him continuing to play an integral role in white ball cricket for Pakistan," he concluded.
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