Mohammad Amir: “I, however, have decided to move away from the longer version so I can concentrate on white ball cricket”

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Pakistan left-arm seamer Mohammad Amir has announced his retirement from Test cricket at the age of 27.

Amir made the surprising decision as he wants to focus more on limited overs cricket.

Amir initially played 14 Tests, where he took 51 wickets at an average of 29.09. However, he was then handed a five-year ban for being involved in a spot-fixing scandal that shocked the cricketing world.

Once he made his return after serving his ban, Amir represented Pakistan in 22 Tests and claimed 68 wickets at an average of 31.51.

Since 2018, Amir has picked up 24 wickets in six Tests at an average of 21.00.

“It has been an honour to represent Pakistan in the pinnacle and traditional format of the game,” Amir said in a statement as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “I, however, have decided to move away from the longer version so I can concentrate on white ball cricket.

“Playing for Pakistan remains my ultimate desire and objective, and I will try my best to be in the best physical shape to contribute in the team’s upcoming challenges, including next year’s ICC T20 World Cup.

“It has not been an easy decision to make and I have been thinking about this for some time. But with the ICC World Test Championship commencing shortly, and Pakistan boasting some very exciting young fast bowlers, it is appropriate that I call on my time in Test cricket so that the selectors can plan accordingly.

“I want to thank all my team-mates as well the opponents in red ball cricket. It has been a privilege to play with and against them. I am sure our paths will continue to cross in limited-overs cricket as all of us play and compete with the same vigour and determination.

“I also want to thank the PCB for providing me the opportunity to don the golden star on my chest. And, I am grateful to my coaches who have groomed me at various stages of my career.”

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