Manchester: Pakistan speedster Mohammad Amir returned to cricket after six years due to his involvement in the spot-fixing scandal that rocked the world in 2010. In an interesting coincidence, Amir’s return to Test cricket happened at the same venue – Lord’s – and in the same country – England – where he committed the crime.
And Amir seemed determined to grab it with both hands.
Though, despite all the buildup, Amir could not hit the top gear and drowned in the huge wave created by leg-spinner Yasir Shah, he took the last wicket that gave Pakistan a historic win over England. And there were clear signs of Amir retaining his old fire.
Enter the second Test – at Old Trafford – and Amir produced a peach of a delivery to dismiss England opener Alex Hales. It came as a reminder to the people who have doubted his talent and intentions. Also, it was an assurance to the people who believed in him .
Apart from dislodging the stumps, what was even more impressive was the way Amir had set up the wicket. Here is a quick clip released by the official account of the ECB: