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Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has set his sights on playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) from the 2026 season, revealing that he would love to don the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) jersey if given the opportunity.
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Amir Confirms IPL Aspirations
Speaking on the show “Haarna Mana Hai,” Amir confirmed that he will be eligible to participate in the IPL next year, thanks to his expected UK passport.
“Next year tak meri opportunity ban rahi hai. Agar hua toh kyu nahi? (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.
His wife Narjis is a UK citizen, and Amir is in the process of obtaining a UK passport, which would allow him to participate in the IPL as an overseas player.
Amir’s Response to Criticism
When asked about possible backlash from Pakistan fans if he plays in the IPL, Amir responded by pointing out that several former Pakistan cricketers have been involved in the league.
“Pakistani cricketers were banned from IPL, but our former cricketers did commentary and were also coaches of franchises,” Amir stated.
His remarks were a subtle reference to Wasim Akram, who worked as the bowling coach for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Ramiz Raja, who has been part of the IPL commentary team.
Virat Kohli’s Gesture Left Amir Overwhelmed
Amir also spoke about his admiration for Virat Kohli, recalling a special moment from the 2016 T20 World Cup in Kolkata.
“Virat is great and admires talent. He gifted me his bat, and I was overwhelmed by his gesture. I have always been a great admirer of his batting, and he has admired my bowling. I played some good knocks with his bat,” Amir reminisced.
Amir Wants to Play for RCB
Expressing his franchise preference, Amir stated that he would love to play for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
His fellow guest on the show, Ahmed Shehzad, backed the idea, suggesting that Amir could be the missing piece in RCB’s title puzzle.
“RCB needs a bowler like Amir to fix their bowling woes. They have a strong batting lineup, but bowling has always been a problem. If Amir plays for RCB, they will win the title,” Shehzad said.
Can Amir Play in the IPL?
Currently, Pakistan players are not allowed in the IPL due to political tensions between the two nations. However, Amir’s expected UK citizenship could open the doors for him as a foreign player.
With his experience, skill, and match-winning abilities, it remains to be seen whether IPL franchises, especially RCB, show interest in signing him for the 2026 season.
