ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistani pacer Mohammad Amir revealed the reason behind him playing quality T20 leagues and emphasised the need for players to approach their careers as professionals.
In an exclusive interview with Geo News, Amir stressed the importance of carefully choosing which T20 leagues to participate in, highlighting the significance of the leagues.
"Players need to be seen as professionals, determining which leagues to play in and which not to. It is essential to see the improvement happening in the league."
"Getting paid is good, but if the standard of play is not there, it's not beneficial. Play two to three leagues, but play in a way that improves cricket and also provides a break. Taking a break is necessary for a fast bowler; otherwise, injuries can occur," he added.
Amir, who is playing his first season for the Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League, shed light on the success of the ongoing season nine.
"In franchise cricket, the most important thing is to build the best combination by ticking all the boxes. Quetta have specialists in both bowling and batting.
"Saud Shakeel's opening has proven to be a positive addition. People had doubts about Saud, but he proved himself with surprising decisions.
"Powerplay in batting and bowling are both crucial. Our spinners are consistently taking wickets in middle overs. The key to Quetta's success is its excellent combination."
Amir also revealed why he didn't play the game against Karachi Kings. "I have been playing cricket constantly and head coach Shane Watson suggested taking a break now rather than taking a break in the later stages of the competition."
Regarding coming back from retirement, Amir revealed that he has been out of international cricket for three to four years. "I am not thinking about a comeback. I want to spend quality time with my family."
Amir expressed confidence in Pakistan's T20 bowling capabilities, foreseeing success in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies.
"Pakistan has good T20 bowlers, and the current ones can perform well in the West Indies at the T20 World Cup. "
Amir concluded while talking about Haris Rauf, who was removed from the central contracts after saying he refused to tour Australia for the Test series.
"The Haris Rauf contract issue would have been better resolved behind closed doors. The matters between players and boards should not be discussed publicly. If a player is part of the central contract, he also cannot say no to the board."
Faizan Lakhani Faizan Lakhani is Deputy Editor (Sports) at Geo News.- Mohammad Amir