Mohammad Amir Decides Against IPL Participation for Upcoming Auction
Mohammad Amir's IPL Aspirations on Hold
In New Delhi, former Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Amir has put a pause on his potential participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has opted not to register for the upcoming IPL auction, effectively quelling speculation regarding his entry into the world's premier T20 league following his acquisition of British citizenship. Despite retiring from international cricket, Amir remains active in franchise cricket, seeking opportunities in various T20 competitions worldwide. He has made it clear that participating in the IPL is not currently a priority for him.
Amir Confirms Decision via Message
According to media reports, Amir dismissed any chances of registering for the IPL auction through a message from Dubai. When asked if he would enter his name for the auction, he firmly stated that he would not. This decision indicates that Amir will not be part of the player pool for the IPL 2027 auction, although he continues to pursue opportunities in franchise cricket.
Speculation Surrounding Amir's IPL Participation
The discussions about Amir's potential involvement in the IPL intensified when he registered as a British citizen for the upcoming Afghanistan Premier League (APL) draft. The 34-year-old has been placed in the platinum category for this draft, with Pakistan listed as his country of residence. Following this registration, it was speculated that he might also participate in other major franchise leagues due to his British citizenship, which fueled discussions about his possible IPL involvement.
New Opportunities Post British Citizenship
Amir obtained British citizenship in May 2026, opening new avenues in his professional cricket career. This status allows him to play under different conditions, free from previous restrictions faced by foreign players. He has already begun participating in domestic T20 competitions in England.
Participation in English T20 Competitions
He has played for Nottinghamshire's Notts Outlaws during the T20 Blast and represented the Trent Rockets in The Hundred competition. In both instances, he participated as a domestic player rather than a foreign one, enabling franchise teams to include him without affecting their foreign player quotas.
Future Plans in PSL
Amir has confirmed his return to the Pakistan Super League (PSL) next year, although his role will differ from before. With his British citizenship, he will compete as a foreign player in the PSL. He has previously indicated his intention to participate in the 2027 edition as a foreign player.
Retirement from International Cricket
In 2024, Amir announced his retirement from international cricket, having represented Pakistan in 36 Tests, 61 ODIs, and 62 T20Is. He was one of Pakistan's leading left-arm fast bowlers, known for his ability to swing the new ball and take crucial wickets.
Comparison with Azhar Mahmood
Following his British citizenship, comparisons were drawn between Amir and former Pakistani all-rounder Azhar Mahmood, who participated in the IPL from 2012 to 2015 after obtaining a British passport. Mahmood played for Kings XI Punjab and Kolkata Knight Riders, benefiting from a unique status under IPL foreign player regulations.
Amir's Focus on Franchise Cricket
Despite the potential for Amir to follow in Mahmood's footsteps, his decision not to register for the upcoming IPL auction has put those possibilities on hold. Amir has made it clear that, despite seeking new opportunities in franchise cricket, he currently has no plans to participate in the IPL, focusing instead on domestic competitions in England and the PSL.