“His selection for the national team, for which he is eligible, would depend on the selectors”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have confirmed that left-arm pace bowler Mohammad Amir is eligible for national selection as he has completed his rehabilitation programme after serving a five-year ban for his role in a spot-fixing scandal in 2010.

Amir, who excelled in domestic matches and the recent Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), has a chance to be selected for Pakistan’s upcoming tour of New Zealand, but the 23-year-old is currently facing visa problems.

“After serving his six-month probation, Amir has been participating in domestic first class cricket with success,” the PCB said in a statement. “He has also performed well in the BPL. Accordingly, Amir has been called to the fitness camp which will enable him to bond with national players. His selection for the national team, for which he is eligible, would depend on the selectors.”

However, while some players like Mohammad Hafeez are against the idea of playing alongside Amir, the PCB has urged the players and fans to forgive him.

“There are a few players and commentators who are opposed to his selection,” the PCB said. “But in the past, spot fixers and drugs cheats have been permitted re-entry in to the international arena after serving their sentence. They include Marlon Samuels, Herschelle Gibbs, Tyson Gay [an American sprinter].”

Amir, who is currently part of a 26-man squad involved in a conditioning camp in Lahore, will also undergo rehabilitation for another six months.

“PCB chairman [Shahryar Khan] recently called in Amir and told him that he needs to show modesty and discipline in his conduct as he would constantly be seen under a microscope,” the PCB said. “Amir agreed to behaving with contrition and respect and act as a role model for youngsters.”