Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has expressed his support for pace bowler Mohammad Amir, stating that his experience will be crucial for the Green Shirts in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, beginning on 1 June.
Amir made his return to international cricket last month during the home T20I series against New Zealand after taking back his retirement.
The left-arm pacer has taken four wickets in five matches during New Zealand and recently concluded Ireland series.
Misbah-Ul-Haq acknowledged that Amir may not be as effective as he once was but emphasised his potential to contribute to Pakistan with his experience.
“Last time back in 2017 in the Champions Trophy, there is quite a difference between that Amir and today’s Amir. Back then, there was more pace, more swing, more zip in his bowling. But now these factors might have been slightly reduced, but there is an advantage. He has huge experience,” Misbah-ul-Haq said while speaking during the Star Sports Press Room.
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The former captain spoke highly of the fast bowler’s skill in handling pressure and bowling in the final overs. He emphasized that Amir has demonstrated his ability to perform in high-pressure matches, especially against India.
“And his experience as a death bowler, how to bowl under pressure and use variations. These factors will be a crucial asset in Amir’s forte this time.
“He might not be that effective with the new ball, but in the death, he will be crucial with his slower balls, aimed at outside the off stump.
“And lastly, comes the major factor of pressure handling. In big games, where you have previously faced big teams and won games, it is more for Amir while facing India.”
Notably, Amir was part of Pakistan sides that won the T20 World Cup in 2009 under Younis Khan and Champions Trophy in 2017 under Sarfaraz Ahmed.
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