Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has attracted fresh attention after acquiring British citizenship, a development that could make him eligible to register for the Indian Premier League as an overseas player. Amir, who entered The Hundred draft as an overseas cricketer, is now representing Trent Rockets as a domestic player after completing the required citizenship formalities.
Pakistani cricketers have not participated in the IPL since its inaugural season in 2008 amid strained political relations between India and Pakistan. However, Amir’s British citizenship changes his registration status and could allow him to enter the IPL player auction under his new nationality. Eligibility to register would not guarantee his selection, which would depend on league approval and interest from a franchise.
Asked about his plans while participating in The Hundred, Amir said he had not decided whether to pursue an IPL opportunity in 2027. He confirmed that he intended to play in the Pakistan Super League that year as an overseas player, indicating that the PSL remained part of his immediate plans despite the change in his citizenship status.
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Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood provides a previous example of a Pakistan-born cricketer participating in the IPL after acquiring British citizenship. Mahmood represented Punjab Kings, then known as Kings XI Punjab, and Kolkata Knight Riders between 2012 and 2015. Amir could potentially follow a similar route if he registers and receives the necessary clearances.
Amir retired from international cricket following the 2024 T20 World Cup, concluding a Pakistan career comprising 36 Tests, 61 One-Day Internationals and 62 Twenty20 Internationals. Widely recognised for his left-arm pace and ability to swing the ball, he has continued playing in franchise competitions and remains an experienced option for teams seeking overseas fast bowlers.
His classification as a domestic player in The Hundred had earlier attracted criticism because he initially entered the draft as an overseas player. Critics argued that the later change limited other teams’ opportunity to sign him. The England and Wales Cricket Board nevertheless approved the arrangement, saying Amir met the eligibility requirements to participate as a domestic cricketer.
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