Former all-rounder Azhar Mehmood has said that Muhammad Amir was a role model for upcoming young cricketers and there is no point that he is not selected in the team as the team is in need of him. "Amir had committed a mistake, he apologised to the nation and also completed his sentence so he should be included in the team," Mehmood was of the view while talking to a news channel.
He said Amir was in good form and could inject a new energy in the bowling line up after ICC suspended Yasir Shah over doping issue. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and team management should look forward to strengthen national cricket by including the fast bowler in the team. "This is national team and we should only look towards Pakistan's future," he mentioned. Muhammad Amir was banned from cricket for five years after he was named in spot fixing scandal along with Salman Butt and Muhammad Asif at Lords against England. After the completion of his sentence he impressed the PCB and selectors with his performance both in domestic and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) which resulted in his inclusion in training camp meant for New Zealand tour.
The former all-rounder further said the credit of handling Amir's issue should also be given to Muhammad Hafeez and Azhar Ali. "Problems do arise at every place but it is good if they are handled and resolved mutually," he mentioned. He said Amir had faced a lot of social and financial issues during the ban and he seems to be a changed person now.
Meanwhile, former batsman Ejaz Ahmad also lauded the performance of Amir in BPL and domestic saying that some players of other teams had also returned to their teams after completing respective bans. He said there would be now huge responsibility over Amir's shoulders to play his part in the team and prove himself.