Pakistan's left-arm seamer Mohammad Amir has said he wants to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2026. The veteran bowler, who announced retirement from international cricket, shared his views on the program Haarna Mana Hai.

Amir, whose wife is a UK citizen, hopes to acquire a UK passport and thus be allowed to play for the IPL as a local. Speaking on the show, he stated:

"By next year, I will be able to play in the IPL. If I am given the opportunity, then why not? I will play in the IPL."

Is he going to face criticism in Pakistan?

While answering questions regarding criticism in Pakistan for playing in the IPL, Amir mentioned that even though Pakistani players were suspended from the league, some of their former colleagues remained as commentators and coaches.

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He was talking about legends such as Wasim Akram, who was a coach for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Ramiz Raja, who provided commentary while IPL matches were being played.

🚨 AMIR TO IPL CARNIVAL 🚨

Amir said "By next year, I will have the opportunity to play in IPL and if given a chance then why not - I will play in IPL". [Haarna Mana Hai] pic.twitter.com/Op57wDBjTk

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 8, 2025

Respect for Virat Kohli

Amir also discussed his respect for Virat Kohli. He remembered a special incident when Kohli presented him with a bat before a T20 World Cup match in 2016.

"Virat is a fantastic player and respects talent. I was speechless when he presented me with his bat. I have always respected his batting, and he values my bowling."

RCB's Potential Game-Changer?

During the telecast, Ahmed Shehzad, a former Pakistani opener, also complimented Amir's ability and opined he might be RCB's missing piece.

"RCB requires the presence of Amir-like bowlers to repair their bowling side. They have a deep batting order but, ever since time immemorial, they never had the problems of their bowlers coming right. If RCB features Amir, at long last they may lift the title of the Indian Premier League."

With the experience and expertise of Amir, it remains to be seen if he would get an opportunity to perform well in the 2026 IPL.