“That’s why I’m saying that Pakistan also has chances"
Former cricketer Mohammad Amir has given his predictions as to who will be the semi-finalists in the 2023 ICC World Cup, taking place in India in October.
Amir stated that India was his first choice, putting it down to their familiarity with their home turf.
He commented: “India without a doubt because these conditions suit them very well.
“England, I think they will be favourites. New Zealand, we always underestimate them but they always make it to the top four.
“Lastly, either Australia or Pakistan will be in the top four amongst these teams.”
Amir recognised that the Pakistan cricket team is known for starting slow in any competition, but agreed that the recent conditions could work in their favour.
He stated: “Pakistan is a late starter, as you may have noticed that whenever a big event comes, we have a slow start.
“The current conditions are favourable for Pakistan compared to England, and if our bowling performs well because we have batters who can score 300-350 runs, our bowling will play a crucial role.
“That’s why I’m saying that Pakistan also has chances compared to England.”
The former cricketer is close to gaining his British passport and citizenship status and teased whether he would play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after receiving his British citizenship.
The 31-year-old sportsman expressed that he did not intend on playing for England, as he was loyal to his native country.
Amir revealed: “First, I will not play for England. I have played for Pakistan. Second [talking of IPL], there is one more year to go.
“What will be the scenario at that time? I always say that I go step by step.
“We don’t know what will happen tomorrow, and I start thinking about playing in the IPL in 2024.
“I don’t know where I will be a year later. No one knows about the future. When I get my passport, whatever the best opportunity will be and what I will get, I will avail it.”
Mohammad Amir retired from international cricket in 2019, due to issues with the Pakistan team management.
Although he is retired, Amir continues to compete in the Pakistan Super League and T20 competitions.
There were rumours surfacing that he would come out of international retirement but nothing came to light.
Amir is married to British lawyer Narjis Khan and moved to England in 2020.
At the peak of his career, Amir was believed to be one of the best bowlers. His career took a dive when he became embroiled in a match-fixing scandal.
He went on to make a comeback in 2016 but he was unable to revive his cricketing career.
Upon receiving his British nationality, many new opportunities will be sure to find their way to the athlete in the cricketing world.
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