Mohammad Amir, the fiery Pakistani pacer, finds himself embroiled in a controversy just days after his surprising return from retirement. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a warning to Amir regarding his association with a betting surrogate company.
Amir’s decision to reverse his retirement, initially announced under the Shaheen Shah Afridi captaincy and Mohsin Naqvi’s chairmanship, was primarily driven by his desire to play in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, starting in June. However, his recent social media promotions for a betting company have cast a shadow over his comeback.
The PCB has expressed disapproval of Amir’s association, reminding him of player regulations that prohibit such endorsements. While Amir claims the contract was signed before his return and assures the board that his image won’t be used for future promotions, the damage to his reputation is undeniable.
Sources reveal a hefty one-year contract worth Rs. 12.5 million, involving 60 social media posts for the betting company. This association coincides with his inclusion in Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, starting today, April 18th.
This controversy comes at a sensitive time for Amir, who was aiming for a triumphant return to the national team. The PCB’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the strict regulations surrounding player conduct. Fans and critics alike are watching closely to see how Amir responds to this situation and whether it will impact his selection for the World Cup.
With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, the pressure is on for both Amir and the PCB. Can Amir navigate this controversy and regain the trust of the board and the fans? Or will this saga cast a lasting shadow on his international comeback? Only time will tell.
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