Disgraced Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has expressed that he is elated after being named in the limited-overs squad for the upcoming New Zealand series, insisting that he will never let his country down again.
The 23-year-old left-hander received a five-year ban from all forms of cricket and served three months in prison for his role in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal. He has selected in the national squad for the first time since his conviction, however, it is subject to the granting of a visa by the New Zealand authorities.
Reflecting on his international recall, an elated Amir said that he had been aiming to earn his spot back in the national side since his return to cricket, adding that there was no better feeling than playing for one’s own country.
Expressing his gratitude towards the Pakistan Cricket Board for giving him a second chance, Amir admitted that he had learnt a lot from his mistakes and vowed that he would never let the cricketing family down again.
Amir also insisted that he was a more mature person now, adding that he was indebted to have a supportive team behind him and for their guidance and help.
Considered as one of the most promising talents, Amir had taken 51 wickets in 14 Tests and 25 in 15 one-day internationals before he was handed a five-year ban for bowling deliberate no-balls by pre-arrangement during the fourth test against England at Lord’s in 2010.
Earlier, the tainted bowler was included in the 26-member national fitness camp in Lahore, whose return in the camp saw divided opinions coming out from the national team.
Amir displayed impressive form in domestic matches as well as in the Bangladesh Premier League ( BPL) after ending his five-year ban for spot-fixing four months ago
Pakistan will play three-match ODIs and three-match T20s starting from January 15.
