Sarfraz Ahmed confirms that Mohammad Amir will miss the World XI tour

Pakistan skipper Sarfraz Ahmed has confirmed that Mohammad Amir will miss the historic Independence Cup against the World XI side. The 3-match T20 International series will commence from Tuesday in Lahore at the Gaddafi Stadium. Amir is currently in England with his wife as the couple was blessed with a baby girl on Monday.

The left-arm pacer was plying his trade with Essex in County cricket post the successful Champions Trophy campaign for his country. Pakistan will certainly miss him in the series as the bowler is in brilliant form. However, Sarfraz confirmed that there are no changes to the squad as originally 16 men were picked for the series.

We are not taking the series lightly

“There is no change of plan as we had already named a 16-man squad with Sohail Khan as an extra bowler with Amir expecting his first baby. Unfortunately, he isn’t available, but we have full options available,” Sarfraz said. He also admitted that the series is a historic one as the revival of international cricket in Pakistan begins but insisted that they are not taking it lightly.

“I think the burden of responsibility has been increased because we are playing at home, but we take every series seriously. This might be a series for a great cause to revive cricket, but we have to watch out for our T20 ranking as well. Our ranking is quite high (No. 3), and we want to maintain it, so the series is equally important. We will try to win every game one-sidedly. But obviously, they are a strong team on paper, and we will have to fight to win,” he added.

Sarfraz is also excited to lead Pakistan in front of the joyous home crowd. “Since the incident (Sri Lanka team attack in 2009) this is my third event in Pakistan. As captain it’s my first, so for me, it’s a proud moment, as well as for all those who have been selected to play against World XI,” he said. I think nothing is more joyous for them than to be playing cricket in Pakistan and we are hopeful that after this series, cricket will be regularly played in the country,” he signed off with a happy smile on his face ahead of the huge series.