England is lucky for me: Mohammad Amir
Apr 6, 2019 at 2:17 PM
Pakistan fast-bowler Mohammad Amir has said that English conditions as lucky for him, in an interview released by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on its official website.
The last time the pacer was in England in 2010, he was Pakistan’s Player of the Series after taking 19 wickets at an average of 18.36. However, the brilliant performance was overshadowed by a match-fixing scandal.
“I was the highest wicket-taker. So, you can say those conditions are lucky for me,” the pacer said.
Amir, who was found guilty of bowling deliberate no-balls for money, is set to make a return to Test cricket in England this summer and, should he be selected for the first Test at Lord’s, his comeback game would be at the venue the infamous fixing incident took place. The four-Test series starts on July 14.
Speaking about last month’s fitness programme at Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, the fast bowler said that it was a new experience for him and hoped it to be beneficial for him.
“It was a tough schedule and a learning experience for me. I am hopeful that it will benefit me and the team.
“The most important part of the programme was the running and the strength workouts. If we continue the regimes, the chances of sustaining injuries will be eradicated,” he said.
Amir further added: “When there is a minor doubt in your mind about getting injured, you will not be able to perform.”
The bowler also expressed his liking for newly-appointed head coach Mickey Arthur. Amir, who was coached by Arthur at Karachi Kings in Pakistan Super League (PSL) , said that the South African coach motivates the players.
“I have played with him [Arthur] in the PSL and I liked him. His best point, in my opinion, is that he mingles with the players and motivates them.”
Amir is currently in the national side’s two-week-long training camp in Hampshire to acclimatize to the English conditions.
Pakistan will play four Tests, at Lord’s, Old Trafford, Edgbaston and the Oval, between July 14 and August 15, followed by two one-day internationals against Ireland and five against England. A Twenty20 international at Old Trafford concludes the tour fixtures on September 7.