Mohammad Amir Reveals Reasons Behind Early Retirement, Cites Bias and Mistreatment

Amir Claims Coaching Bias Led to New Zealand Exclusion Despite Strong PSL Form

By DTD- On Mar 10, 2025

ISLAMABAD — Former Pakistan left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir has opened up about the reasons behind his early retirement from international cricket, blaming alleged bias in team selection and mistreatment by former team management. Speaking on a private television channel ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025, Amir reflected on the challenges he faced throughout his career, particularly during Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amir revealed that despite being part of the national setup, he was excluded from the New Zealand tour, a decision he implied was deliberate. “Forty players were selected, but my name was not there,” he said, suggesting that the omission was intentional.

The 32-year-old fast bowler also claimed that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) was used to sideline him and veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik. He alleged that the national team was announced ahead of the PSL to prevent both players from performing well and earning a recall to the squad. “PSL was about to start, but they announced the team early so that Amir and Malik wouldn’t perform well and they wouldn’t have to take us,” he explained.

Amir also accused former head coach Waqar Younis of making biased decisions against him and stated that certain cricketers from the 1990s tried to sabotage his career. While Amir did not name anyone, he said, “A former cricketer from the 90s tried his best to destroy my career.”

Reflecting on his performances in the PSL, Amir highlighted his key role in Karachi Kings’ Super Over that helped the team reach the final. Despite his strong performances, he said that a member of the coaching staff kept him out of the New Zealand squad. Amir recalled the widespread criticism that followed, with many questioning why he was excluded despite his excellent form.

The coach, according to Amir, responded vaguely, saying, “He is in our plans, but we need to keep him under pressure for now. We will see later.”

Amir initially retired from international cricket in 2020, citing mistreatment from the management but reversed his decision ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024, making a return to the national team. However, on December 14, 2024, he announced his permanent retirement, bringing an end to his controversial career with Pakistan.