Shoaib Akhtar Lashes Out at PCB for Signaling Amir’s Return

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has reacted to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to allow Mohammad Amir to return to the national team.

Speaking in an interview, Shoaib Akhtar said that the cricket board should consider what Pakistan needs instead of signaling Amir’s return.

Akhtar added that despite Amir’s repeated claims that he had dedicated his life to cricket, the truth was that he had broken the law, for which he was punished.

Akhtar said that Amir’s performance improved until the 2017 Champions Trophy and then showed substandard performances in the next 15 to 20 ODIs.

It is worth noting here that Aamir, while announcing his retirement in 2020, had accused the previous PCB management of willful neglect and mental torture.

Last month, the Najam Sethi-led management committee allowed him to start training at the National High Performance Center (NHPC) in Lahore.

Haroon Rashid had said earlier this week that the committee could consider recalling Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Amir if they fit in the current line-up.

Asked about Amir’s inclusion, the chief selector said his selection would be based solely on his performance and decision to withdraw retirement.

Last month, PCB Chairman Najam Sethi also said that “If Mohammad Amir withdraws his retirement, he can play international cricket for Pakistan.”