'Pakistan chapter I had before is now closed': Amir calls himself 'British local'

Mohammad Amir, once one of Pakistan’s most celebrated cricketers, has officially closed the door on a potential return to his home nation’s cricketing scene. In a recent interview with cricket journalist and YouTuber Muhammad Furqan Bhatti, the former fast bowler confirmed that his “Pakistan chapter” is now over following his acquisition of British citizenship. This move has rendered him ineligible to compete as a local player in English domestic leagues, effectively ending any possibility of him representing Pakistan again in official capacities. Amir, who retired from international cricket in December 2024, stated that his new status as a British citizen means he can no longer be considered a local player in competitions such as the County Championship and The Hundred. As per the rules governing these tournaments, players registered as locals must commit to not representing another country as a local. Amir emphasized this point in his interview, saying, “I am a British local now. When you play in competitions such as the County Championship and The Hundred as a local player, you have to sign a document stating that you cannot play for another country as a local. So, the Pakistan chapter I had before is now closed.” The transition to British citizenship came through his marriage to Narjis Khan, a British national. Amir has resided in the United Kingdom for several years and has been actively participating in both English domestic and franchise cricket since retiring from international duty. His latest role saw him join Nottinghamshire for the 2026 T20 Blast, where he did not occupy an overseas spot, allowing him to play as a local. He later represented Trent Rockets in The Hundred under similar terms. Despite closing the door on a return to Pakistan’s national team, Amir has expressed openness to playing in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) as a foreign player. This would allow him to participate in Pakistan’s premier franchise tournament while maintaining his eligibility as a local in English competitions. His involvement in the 2026 PSL with Rawalpindi highlighted his continued connection to Pakistani cricket, even as his legal status shifts. Amir’s international career spanned 147 matches across all formats, during which he claimed 259 wickets. He was a key figure in Pakistan’s historic 2017 Champions Trophy victory, where his performance in the final against India, where he dismissed Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shikhar Dhawan, was pivotal. His contributions were also notable in the 2019 ODI World Cup, where he took five wickets against Australia. These moments cemented his reputation as one of Pakistan’s most effective fast bowlers. While some fans might have hoped for his participation in the upcoming 2027 World Cup, Amir’s decision reflects a broader trend among international athletes seeking dual nationality to expand their careers. His shift does not diminish his legacy within Pakistan’s cricketing history, nor does it erase the impact he made during his time with the national team. Amir’s journey from being a rising star in Pakistan to securing a place in English domestic cricket underscores the evolving nature of international sports. His story is emblematic of how modern athletes navigate multiple identities and opportunities, often choosing paths that align with personal circumstances and professional aspirations. With his new status secured, Amir continues to contribute to the sport he loves, albeit under different flags and regulations.