Amir boost for Pakistan ahead of Champions Trophy final

New Delhi: In a shot in the arm just before the big final against India on Sunday, Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has been declared fit.

Amir, who missed the semi final against England because of a back injury completed the training session on Friday without much difficulties.

However, Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood did not throw any light on Amir’s selection.

"Amir bowled today. Amir is fit," Mahmood said on Friday. "We have not decided about (playing him)."

But if Amir’s words are anything to go by then the left arm quick is raring to go against the strongest batting line up of the tournament.

"We need early wickets. If we take two-three early wickets then we can stop them from getting past 300,” said Amir about his plans going into the finals against India.

Amir was replaced by Rumman Nazeer in the semifinal match, who was very impressive on his debut. His 2 for 44, was crucial in Pakistan’s eight-wicket win over England. It will be interesting to see whether the youngster is excluded in the expense of a more experienced Amir.  

"When you go to a final, you want your experienced player, you want him to be fully fit and participating on that particular day," Mahmood said. But (we have told him) if he has any doubt he should let us know. At the moment he bowled today. He is fine. Yeah, definitely you would go with Amir, but we don't mind if Amir can't play. If he is not fit, then we have to move on." Said Azhar Mahmood