Mohammed Amir expects to be eligible to play in IPL from next season, expresses desire to play for RCB

Mohammad Amir, the former Pakistan fast bowler, has expressed his desire to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) once he becomes eligible in 2026. Amir mentioned that getting a UK passport would open the doors and opportunities for him to play in the cash-rich league.

Retired from international cricket, Amir addressed the possible repercussions he might face in Pakistan for participating in the IPL.

“By next year, I will have the opportunity to play in the IPL. If given the chance, why not? I will play in the IPL,” said Amir on the show Haarna Mana Hai.

“Pakistani cricketers were not allowed to play in the IPL, yet some of our former players were doing commentary and coaching franchises,” he added.

Amir came to note Wasim Akram, who was once the coach of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Ramiz Raja, who worked as a commentator in the league.

Also Read: Full List of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Squad and Players for IPL 2025

The left-arm pacer also shared about his adoration for Indian batting great Virat Kohli, remembering a special moment from 2016 when Kohli gifted him a bat in Kolkata before the T20 World Cup match.  

“Virat is a great player who admires talent. He gave me his bat, and I was overwhelmed by his gesture. I have always admired his batting, and he respects my bowling. I played some good knocks with that bat," Amir shared.

Amir also revealed his interest to represent Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL. Ahmed Shehzad, his fellow guest, backed this statement suggesting Amir could be the missing piece for RCB’s puzzling title hunt. 

“RCB needs a bowler like Amir to fix their bowling woes. Their batting has always been strong, but bowling has been an issue. If Amir joins them, they will win the title," said Shehzad.

Meanwhile, RCB begin their IPL 2025 campaign against KKR on the opening day of the season at Eden Gardens on March 22.