Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has stirred significant buzz in the cricketing community after revealing his intention to play in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL). His announcement has raised both excitement and questions, especially as it could mark a landmark moment for Pakistani cricketers in the tournament after more than a decade of absence.
Speaking on a popular television show, Amir confirmed his plans to enter the IPL auction in 2026, generating considerable interest among fans. “By next year, I will have the opportunity to play in the IPL, and if given the chance, why not? I will play in the IPL,” Amir said.
Mohammad Amir’s eligibility to feature in the IPL hinges on a key personal development: his application for UK citizenship. The left-arm fast bowler has been residing in the United Kingdom, where his wife, Narjis, holds British citizenship. Amir is in the process of acquiring a British passport, which he expects to receive by the end of 2025. Once he becomes a British citizen, Amir will no longer be classified as a Pakistani player under the IPL’s regulations, allowing him to enter the auction as an overseas player.
This strategy is not without precedent. In 2011, former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood acquired British citizenship and played in the IPL for Kings XI Punjab (2012-2013) and Kolkata Knight Riders (2015), bypassing the BCCI’s ban on Pakistani players. Mohammad Amir appears to be following a similar route to make his IPL debut, potentially opening the door for more Pakistani-born cricketers to participate in the lucrative league.
Mohammad Amir’s potential IPL entry would be a significant career milestone for the 31-year-old. The IPL is widely regarded as the most financially rewarding and competitive T20 league globally, and participation in the tournament would provide Amir with a platform to further cement his status in world cricket.
As Amir prepares for his potential IPL debut in 2026, the cricketing world will be watching closely to see if the pacer’s strategy succeeds and if it paves the way for future Pakistani-born cricketers to compete in the IPL. For now, the focus is on Amir’s journey to British citizenship, which could be the key to unlocking a new chapter in his career.