Former Pakistan pace bowling legend, Wasim Akram, has announced that disgraced bowler Mohammad Amir should be forgiven and be allowed to return playing international cricket, after serving his ban for match-fixing.
Amir, along with Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif, was involved in a spot-fixing scandal in the fourth test against England at Lord’s in 2010, where by bowled two huge no-balls.
“I think we should move on in Aamer’s case, forgive him as he has served his punishment for the mistake he committed and allow the youngster another chance” Akram said.
Amir, has been banned from playing all forms of cricket for five years by the International Cricket Council (ICC), and does not seem likely to challenge the decision.
Akram, who sees Amir as a great talent, believes he has learnt his lesson, and should be allowed back on the international stage.
“As a cricket-loving nation we must forgive him (Aamer). He has done his time and once he serves his ban he should be allowed back into international cricket as he is one of the most talented bowlers” he said.
Amir, currently aged 19, was compared to Akram throughout the 2010 Test series against England, where he left their batting lineup in absolute tatters.
However, Akram, thinks that Amir, was a better bowler than he was at the age of 19.
“Lots of people including Imran Khan praised his talent and he was the hottest property in international cricket until he committed that mistake” Akram said.
Indian batting legend, Rahul Dravid, has also given his support for Amir, and wished him all the best when he his was lifted.
But, England batsman, Kevin Pietersen, on the other hand, said that he believes any player caught match-fixing, should never be allowed to play international cricket again.
However, Akram, said: “If Pakistan is fine, the ICC is fine, then it doesn’t matter what others say. Aamer should play once he serves his ban.”
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), is helping Amir with his rehabilitation and stated that they will re-consider picking him once he serves his five year ban.