Mohammad Amir Gains British Citizenship, Opening a Possible Route Into the IPL

Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has become a British citizen, a change that could make him eligible to play in the Indian Premier League.

How he qualified

Amir, now 34, was eligible for citizenship through his wife, Narjis Khan, who is a UK national. With a British passport he can be registered as a UK overseas player in franchise leagues around the world, including the IPL.

The IPL barrier

Pakistan players have not been allowed in the IPL since its inaugural season. They were banned after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, although several took part in that first edition, among them Sohail Tanvir, Younis Khan, Kamran Akmal, Shoaib Akhtar and Shahid Afridi.

Amir has said before that he would be open to playing in the tournament if given the chance, remarking that he expected to have the opportunity by next year.

Precedent and uncertainty

It is unclear whether any of the ten franchises would pick him at an auction, given his history with the Pakistan team. There is a precedent, though: former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood played in the IPL after acquiring British citizenship, turning out for Punjab and Kolkata.