Mohammad Amir's retirement will have negative impact on Pakistan cricket and its image: Inzamam-ul-Haq

Former Pakistan captain and chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq has said that the recent controversy surrounding Mohammad Amir’s retirement will have a negative impact on country’s cricket. Earlier this month, Amir sensationally brought down curtains on his international career at an early age of 28. Having retired from Tests last year, the star pacer hung his boots from limited-overs too.

Following his retirement, he also lashed out at the Pakistan team management and pointed out how differences with the coaches compelled him to take the big decision. He also accused the team-management of tarnishing his image as he made it clear that differences with head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis was the reason behind his retirement.

Amir, who helped Pakistan win the Champions Trophy in 2017, retired after representing his country in 36 Tests, 61 ODIs and 50 T20Is. The pacer, who burst onto the scene as a prodigy, picked up 119 wickets in Tests and 81 and 59 wickets in ODIs and T20Is respectively.

Inzamam-ul-Haq on Mohammad Amir’s retirement

Mohammad Amir’s retirement has caused quite a stir in the Pakistan cricket fraternity and Inzamam-ul-Haq has also weighed in with his views. The legendary batsman highlighted that Amir’s decision will have a negative impact on Pakistan cricket and its image. He felt that the Amir incident didn’t reflect well on Pakistan cricket.

Also Read: ‘They tried to spoil my image’ – Mohammad Amir hits out at Pakistan team management after retiring from international cricket

“It is not about what impact Amir’s decision will have on our bowling resources or strength because life moves on. But what bothers me more is the negative impact such incidents have on our cricket and its image. It is better if such situations don’t take place,” Inzamam told the media in Lahore on Thursday according to Times of India

At the same time, Inzamam spared a thought for Amir too. The former cricketer stated that the pacer should have used all his options before taking such a drastic step. Inzamam-ul-Haq said that the cricketer should have spoken with the coaches as well as the PCB before deciding to retire from international cricket.

“If he is unhappy with one or two persons in the team management he should have first spoken openly with head coach, Misbah-ul-Haq and if required even the Pakistan Cricket Board officials before deciding on what to do. He appears to have issues with Waqar (Younis bowling coach) and if his grievances were not listened to then he should have adopted this route,” said Inzamam.