IPL 2025: How can Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir play in next IPL edition?

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has ignited discussions across the cricketing world with his recent revelation about potentially featuring in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL).

Speaking on a television show, the left-arm seamer confirmed that he intends to register for the IPL auction next year, a statement that has stirred excitement among fans while also raising questions about his eligibility.

Why Is Amir's Potential IPL Entry So Significant?

Since 2008, Pakistani cricketers have been absent from the IPL due to political tensions following the Mumbai terror attacks. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) imposed a ban on Pakistani players from participating in the league, and the restriction has remained in place ever since. Despite this, Amir has found a way to circumvent the ban through a legal route that has previously allowed another Pakistani-born cricketer to play in the league.

How can Mohammad Amir play in IPL?

Amir's eligibility hinges on his ongoing process of obtaining UK citizenship. His wife, Narjis, is a British citizen, and Amir has been residing in the United Kingdom, which has enabled him to apply for a British passport. According to the former Pakistan pacer, he is expected to receive his UK passport by the end of 2025. Once he secures British nationality, he will no longer be considered a Pakistani player under IPL regulations, thereby allowing him to enter the auction as an overseas player from the United Kingdom.

This is not an unprecedented move. Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood followed a similar path, acquiring British citizenship in 2011 and subsequently playing in the IPL for Kings XI Punjab (2012-2013) and Kolkata Knight Riders (2015). Amir's case appears to be an identical strategy to navigate around the BCCI's policy regarding Pakistani cricketers in the IPL.

The possibility of Amir featuring in the IPL has drawn mixed reactions. While many fans are thrilled at the prospect of witnessing a Pakistani-born cricketer in the league after more than a decade, others remain skeptical about the ethics of players switching nationalities to gain access to lucrative T20 leagues.

For Amir, playing in the IPL could be a major career milestone. The tournament is widely regarded as the most competitive and financially rewarding T20 league in the world.