DUBAI: International Cricket Council (ICC) chief David Richardson said that Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir can make a successful return to international cricket despite five years absence.
The 23-year-old was suspended from all forms of cricket for five years after being found guilty of spot-fixing.
At the beginning of the year the bowler was granted permission by ICC to play domestic cricket after he showed high level of remorse for his wrongdoing.
He has played second grade and domestic T20 cricket in Pakistan since then, and has said he is hoping to return to the international game.
“I certainly hope so,” said Richardson, when asked if he was confident the five-year ban and rehabilitation procedure will have worked for Amir.
“He was a very talented youngster. People make mistakes. I personally was involved with someone who captained my team and made mistakes.
“I certainly saw it was very possible for him to realise the wrongs of his ways and to do everything he could to try and get back to be accepted again.
“I have every faith that in Amir’s case it will be very similar.”
When Pakistan take on England later this year it will be more than five years that Amir featured in an international match.
It would be impossible for Amir to get an immediate call for England series but will be on the side line.
