Amir signs with Essex for 2017 season, makes county debut

KARACHI: After making a remarkable comeback to international cricket from five-year suspension, Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Amir is all set to make county debut with Essex next season.

Confirming the signing with 24-year-old Amir, the county said on Tuesday that the fast bowler will join the team for second half of 2017 season.

“Pakistan International Mohammad Amir will join Essex County Cricket Club for the second half of the 2017 campaign and compete in both the Specsavers County Championship and NatWest T20 Blast,” said a statement from Essex county.

Amir, who was suspended for five years in 2010 for his alleged role in the spot-fixing scandal, made return to Test Cricket earlier this year in series against the England.

Numerous notable performances since his return to international cricket finally earned him a county deal, Essex describes Amir as “one of the most exciting bowling talents in the world with the ability to bowl at good pace and swing the ball both ways.”

Amir will be available for Essex county at the end of ICC Champions Trophy in England and will be available for selection from June 19 onwards.

The young Pakistani bowler said he’s excited to be part of Essex county and looking forward to perform for the team.

“I am very excited about becoming part of the Essex family. Chris Silverwood and Ronnie Irani have both been very supportive over the summer. I’m hoping I can carry on Essex’s success this season and achieve more for the club in 2017,” said Amir in a statement after his signing with Essex county.