While there is lot of talk about the form of pacer Mohammad Amir and whether he should be part of Pakistan World Cup 2019 squad, the former Pakistan legend has no hesitation in choosing the experienced pacer in the team.
“Although he has not performed well in the previous few matches Mohammad Amir is still one of the best bowlers in the world and I see him as a future captain of Pakistan,” Wasim Akram was quoted as saying.
Amir, who was dropped after just one match in the recent five-match one-day international series against Australia in the United Arab Emirates, has gone wicketless in nine of his last 14 games.
His lack of taking wickets has made whole team management worried including its skipper Sarfaraz Ahmad.
“When your main strike bowler is not taking wickets regularly, obviously it causes concern to the captain,” Sarfaraz told a television channel.
In the ICC Champions Trophy 2017, Amir’s spell of 3/16 in the final rocked the tournament favourites India to hand Pakistan victory. He was in exceptional form then, tormenting the strong Indian top-order and it looked like the 26-year-old was here to stay. Unfortunately, a string of below par performances since then have cast a shadow of doubt over his inclusion in the World Cup squad.
“I can’t say whether he will be in the World Cup squad or not but our minds are clear about our plans and when the squad is announce everyone will know,” the Pakistan skipper added.
Pakistan’s World Cup campaign will begin on 31 May against West Indies. Prior to the premier event, they will tour England to play five ODIs and a one-off T20I from 5 May. The selectors will be announcing the 15-member World Cup squad on 18 April, followed by a 17-18-member squad for the England tour on 23 April, so Amir still has his opportunities.
Meanwhile Wasim Akram has also backed young pacer Mohammad Hasnain and said “By holding Hasnain back what do you want to do? When I came to the team I was 17 & hadn’t played any cricket. When Waqar came he was 18 and had played hardly any First-class. The more he stays around the team the more his confidence & fitness will improve”