I am happy to see Mohammed Amir back: Virat Kohli

While most are unsure of how to react upon the successful comeback of Mohammed Amir, Virat Kohli is certainly elated. Mohammed Amir faced a five-year ban from cricket following allegations and evidence of match fixing in Pakistan’s tour of England in 2010. The Indian team vice-captain is however pleased to see Amir’s return to international cricket. When asked about the prospect of facing Amir in the upcoming Asia Cup, Kohli said that “I don’t feel anything different playing Pakistan. It’s the same game of cricket. I look at all oppositions with the same view. Matches against Pakistan are certainly competitive.”

“People may feel excited but for players, it’s the same as any other team. I am happy to see Aamer back, it’s good to see that he has realised his mistake, learnt from it and rectified himself,” he said. Kohli is one of the few non-Pakistani international cricketers who has welcomed Aamir’s comeback.

In fact, Kohli went to the extent of saying that Aamir could have been amongst the top three bowlers, had he not strayed. “I have always believed that he (Aamir) is a world class bowler and had he been around for the five years that he was banned, he would have certainly been a top three bowlers in the world. He has a lot of talent, has got pace, bounce a very good yorker,” he said.

Virat Kohli also said that it took courage to admit to the mistake he made. “I wish him all the best. He has worked hard to make a comeback and it takes courage to do what he did,” Kohli added.

Kohli and Amir will face each other on the 27th of February in the Asia Cup.