The cricketing world witnessed yet another emotional exit as Mohammad Amir announced his retirement from international cricket on December 14, 2024. This decision came just a day after Imad Wasim also bid farewell to international cricket, ending a short-lived comeback for both players. The list of Amir’s retirements has been a mix of controversy, comebacks, and personal struggles, making his latest announcement both significant and inevitable.
Amir and Imad’s Final Stint with Pakistan
Both Amir and Imad retired reversely this year to play Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024. The tournament, held in the USA and the Caribbean, marked their last appearance in Pakistan colors. Their last game was with Ireland, on June 16, Lauderhill, a group-stage game.
Although Pakistan could not reach the group stage, both Amir and Imad demonstrated significant contributions. Amir stood out as Pakistan’s joint-highest wicket-taker, claiming seven wickets with an impressive economy rate of 4.50. In the meantime, Imad Wasim, batting awkwardly, took three wickets at a disciplined economy of 4.00.
Their performances, though, were not good enough to keep Pakistan from early elimination, and the World Cup went out quietly as a finality to their comeback story.
List of Mohammad Amir’s Retirements: A Timeline
Amir’s retirement list is a roller coaster ride with positive expectations, controversies, and personal burdens. Here’s a timeline of his major decisions:
- July 2019: Test Cricket Retirement
Amir retired from Test cricket at 27 years of age and concentrated on the smaller-format game(s). He made a return to the international stage in 2016 following a suspension for his role in the notorious Spot-fixing sting. Despite his reduced appearances, Amir managed to pick up 68 wickets in 22 Tests after his comeback.
- December 2020: Forced Retirement Due to ‘Mental Torture’
In a shocking move, Amir quit international cricket, citing “mental torture” from Pakistan’s team management. He out loud charged coaches Misbah-ul-Haq and Waqar Younis to be hauling him too close to the cliff. The PCB granted Amir’s decision and, refusing further comment, reserved the liberty to proceed.
“The 28-year-old confirmed to the PCB chief executive that he has no desires or intentions of playing international cricket and as such, he should not be considered for future international matches. This is a personal decision of Mohammad Amir, which the PCB respects, and as such, will not make any further comment on this matter at this stage,” PCB statement stated.
- March 2024: Amir’s Dream to Play Again
Amir reignited hopes for his fans in March 2024, expressing his desire to make a return to Pakistan’s T20 squad. With positive talks with the PCB and inspiration from his family, he has surrendered for the T20 World Cup.
“I still dream of playing for Pakistan. There have been a few positive discussions between myself and the PCB where they respectfully made me feel that I was needed and can still play for Pakistan, and after discussing with family and well wishers I declare that I am available to be considered for the upcoming T20 WC,”
- December 14, 2024: Amir’s Final Goodbye
Months after his return to the game, Amir announced the suspension of his career, describing the decision as a “painful but decisive” one, to prepare the future generation of Pakistani cricketers. [These decisions are never simple but unavoidable],” he penned out, asking the younger players to rise to the challenge of lifting Pakistan cricket.
Imad Wasim: The Quiet Goodbye
On December 13, 2024, Imad Wasim (also) announced his retirement, concluding his career at the international level. Imad, a skillful all-rounder, acknowledged it was high time to move on. His farewell came quietly but symbolized a significant transition in Pakistan cricket.
Both players remain hot commodities in the T20 and T10 franchise circuits worldwide. Recently, they showcased their skills in the Abu Dhabi T10 League, where Amir represented the New York Strikers and Imad played for Morrisville Samp Army, who finished as losing finalists.
The Future of Pakistan Cricket
With the back-to-back retirements of Amir and Imad, the phase-changing for Pakistan cricket is being emphasized. Their lunacies for comebacks and retirement have been substantial. The account of Amir’s retirement is an example of how the battles, pressures, and passion that make up international cricket, can be confronting.
Although their departures signify the closure of a chapter, the responsibility now rests on the next generation of players to elevate Pakistan cricket to new levels.
Also, see: List of IPL 2025 Retentions for All Ten Franchises