Mohammad Amir first gained global recognition as a seventeen-year-old fast bowler during the 2009 ICC World Twenty20, where his opening spells and rapid, skiddy bouncers proved essential to Pakistan securing the tournament title. His early international progression marked him as a premier talent, defined by his ability to maintain high speeds and execute precise, aggressive deliveries under immense pressure.
Early Development and Domestic Success
Born in 1992 in Changa Bangial, Gujar Khan, Amir grew up in a Punjabi household as the second youngest of seven children. He pursued his interest in cricket by modeling his bowling style after Wasim Akram. In 2003, his aptitude earned him a spot at the Bajwa Cricket Academy in Rawalpindi. His professional development accelerated in 2007 at a fast bowling camp led by Akram, leading to an impressive U-19 tour of England. His domestic output for the National Bank of Pakistan, which included 55 first-class wickets in his debut season, paved the way for his rapid elevation to the national side.
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Amir made his international debut in 2009, quickly establishing himself in Test cricket against Sri Lanka by dismissing Kumar Sangakkara twice in a single match. However, his career faced a major interruption in 2010 following allegations of spot-fixing during a tour of England. He was convicted at Southwark Crown Court for conspiracy charges, served three months in prison, and faced a five-year ban from the International Cricket Council. He returned to international competition in January 2016.
Later Career and Retirement
Following his return, Amir played a central role in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy victory, specifically by claiming the wickets of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shikhar Dhawan in the final against India. Beyond the national team, he participated in various leagues, including the Pakistan Super League, Lanka Premier League, and Bangladesh Premier League. After initial retirement in 2020, he returned briefly for the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup before retiring permanently from international cricket in December 2024.
Fast facts
- Born: 1992, Gujar Khan
- International career span: 2009–2024
- Bowling style: Left-arm fast
- Batting style: Left-handed
- 2009 ICC World Twenty20: Winner
- 2017 ICC Champions Trophy: Winner
- Spouse: Narjis Amir
- British citizenship acquired: May 2026
Questions readers ask
Which major ICC tournaments did Mohammad Amir win with Pakistan?
He was a member of the winning squads for the 2009 ICC World Twenty20 and the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy.
Why did Mohammad Amir face a five-year ban from cricket?
He received the ban following a 2010 spot-fixing scandal during a tour of England, which also led to his conviction for conspiracy charges.
Achievements
- Represented Pakistan national cricket team, Federal Areas cricket team and National Bank of Pakistan cricket team
- Discipline: cricket
