Mohammad Amir’s campaign in the ongoing edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) began on a poor note. The left-arm pacer is playing for Karachi Kings and the Karachi-based outfit were up against Peshawar Zalmi in their tournament-opener.

Even before the game had started, Mohammad Amir ensured that the spotlight remained firmly on him by giving a surprising statement. Talking about his matchup with his former Karachi Kings teammate and current Pakistan skipper Babar Azam, the fast-bowler had told ARY news:

“These kinds of matchups and player rivalries keep players on their toes. I personally like these sort of challenges because it keeps me focused. My job is to take wickets and win matches for my team, so for me, facing Babar or a tailender batting at number 10 will be the same.”

Mohammad Amir had faced criticism for his comments as fans from Pakistan slammed him for comparing Babar with a tailender. And the left-arm pacer did little in the game against Peshawar Zalmi to stop the criticism coming his way.

He conceded 42 runs in 4 overs without picking up a wicket as Peshawar Zalmi registered a thrilling 2-run win. Mohammad Amir was also involved in an incident during the game that did not go down well with many.

After being hit for a few fours by Babar, he had lost his cool. The incident took place in the 6th over. On the fifth ball, Babar hit the pacer for a four before defending the following ball towards him. Mohammad Amir was frustrated with his poor start and vented his frustration by throwing the ball angrily.

Mohammad Amir reacts:

Mohammad Amir has broken his silence regarding the ball-throwing incident against Peshawar Zalmi. Recalling the incident, the fast-bowler insisted that it happened in the ‘heat of the moment and it wasn’t personal’.

“It was a heat of the moment thing and it was nothing personal [against Babar]. Bowlers should show aggression on the field, to get the best out of them”, he said.

“I was under pressure in the game, which is the beauty of this league. It helps you get better,” added Mohammad Amir.