Pakistan speedster Mohammad Amir might well turn out to be a doubtful starter for the 2019 World Cup squad after Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed revealed in an interview with a TV channel that the left-arm pacer’s inability to pick wickets in ODI cricket has not helped his side. He hasn’t revealed whether Mohammad Amir will be part of the Pakistan World Cup-bound squad but his concerns might also push Amir into a corner.
Ever since the match-winning spell against India in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy, Mohammad Amir has bagged just a solitary wicket in 14 matches which include a drought of 9 wicketless matches. Sarfaraz Ahmed said that when the main strike bowler of the team is not picking wickets on a consistent basis it is a matter of serious concern.
“When your main strike bowler is not taking wickets regularly obviously it causes concern to the captain,” Sarfaraz Ahmed told a television channel.
Amir has got an average of 85 per wicket in the 14 games. Even his pace and wicket taking rate has gone down considerably. As per reports, the Pakistan selectors are due to announce the World Cup squad on 18th April. As per sources, it is learnt that the Pakistan team might take 17-18 players for the World Cup-bound squad.
“Pakistan is due to play a five-match ODI series against England besides some matches against English counties in May and since every country has to give final shape to its 15-member World Cup squad by 23rd May, the selectors might want to have a final look at Amir before deciding on whether he plays in the mega-event or not,” a source said.
Sarfaraz agreed to the fact that there has been a huge cut in the strike rate for Mohammad Amir. To add to that he has also lost pace and doesn’t seem to be in the radar for future tours. Even his World Cup selection looks bleak.
“I can’t say whether he (Amir) will be in the World Cup squad or not but our minds are clear about our plans and when the squad is announced everyone will know,” Pakistan skipper stated.
Meanwhile reports in India Today claim that Amir’s selection for the World Cup is in serious doubts after coach Mickey Arthur and bowling coach Azhar Mohammad has lost faith in the speedster who was once touted as the successor of the great Wasim Akram.
“Arthur has backed Amir all through this time but with more pace options available now, he is having second thoughts about reposing faith in Amir in the big event,” the source claimed.