Visa delays force Mohammad Amir to miss first match against Ireland

LAHORE: Fast bowler Mohammad Amir is forced to miss the first T20I match against hosts Ireland due to delays in obtaining visa, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Friday.

Initially scheduled to join the team for the first T20 match, Amir’s departure was hindered by a delay in obtaining his visa. As a result, there is no possibility of him participating in the series opener.

Read more: Mohammad Amir gets Ireland’s visa

The PCB stated that, “Mohammad Amir will miss the first T20I due to delays in the issuance of his visa. He is expected to join the side on Friday.”

The fast bowler’s participation in the on-going series was important as Amir was hoping to secure a spot in the squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

However, the PCB assured fans that Amir will be available for selection in the subsequent matches of the T20 series. The fast bowler’s will be available for the second and third matches of the T20 series with Ireland.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi reportedly played a “pivotal role” in helping Amir’s visa issuance. He ensured that the fast bowler could join the squad for the remaining matches of the series.

The 37-year old is considered one of best fast bowlers Pakistan ever produced. Although, very early in his career he was embroiled in spot-fixing scandal.

The left-arm fast bowler was discovered by fellow legendary bowler Wasim Akram in 2007. Mohammad Amir would quickly breakthrough mainstream success in cricketing world. His exceptional performance in domestic cricket soon earned him a spot in the country’s World T20 squad in 2009.

The fast bowler performed well even in the One Day International (ODIs) format. His 4 for 28 against Sri Lanka and during the Champions Trophy cemented him as one of best bowlers across two formats.

Read more: Visa issues threaten Ireland tour for Mohammad Amir

However, Amir’s Achilles heel is apparently the five-day test format where he was given inconsistent performance.

Mohammad Amir would return play for Pakistan following a ban due to a spot-fixing. However, he retired from international cricket later before coming out of retirement this year in hopes of playing in the upcoming world cup.