Pakistan secured a seven-wicket victory against Canada to kickstart their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign at the Nassau County International Stadium in New York on Tuesday, June 11. After facing defeats against the USA and India, Pakistan was eager to improve their performance against Canada to keep their Super Eight hopes alive. Mohammad Amir played a pivotal role in this victory, showcasing his exceptional bowling skills.
In this article, we look at the three best spells of Mohammad Amir in T20 World Cups.
#3 2-13 vs Canada, 2024
Amir was at his imperious best against Canada in a must-win game for Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup in New York. Canada batted first and was restricted to a lowly 106/7 in 20 overs, largely due to Amir’s influence with the ball. The left-arm seamer’s ability to bring the ball back into right-handers and trouble southpaws with his deliveries was on full display. Amir ended with brilliant figures of 2/13 from his four overs, conceding runs at an economy of just 3.20, leaving Canadian batters in awe.
#2 3-35 vs Australia, 2010
Amir played a crucial role for Pakistan in the semi-final of the 2010 World T20 (as it was known back then) against Australia at Gros Islet, Saint Lucia. Despite the game being remembered for Michael Hussey’s heroics, Amir’s contribution with the ball was significant. Pakistan set a formidable target of 192, thanks to half-centuries from Kamran and Umar Akmal. Amir’s 3/35 helped reduce Australia to 105/5 by the 13th over. However, Hussey’s unbeaten 60 off 24 balls turned the game in Australia’s favor. Despite bowling an expensive 19th over, Amir’s earlier spell was a key factor in keeping Pakistan in the game.
#1 3-23 vs Australia, 2010
Amir’s best performance in a T20 World Cup came against Australia in the group stage of the 2010 edition at Gros Islet. Australia batted first and posted a massive total of 191, but Amir’s spell of 3/23 helped Pakistan bowl them out. His deliveries were a mix of raw pace and strategic placements, causing significant trouble for the Australian batters. Off-spinner Saeed Ajmal also picked up three wickets, complementing Amir’s efforts. Despite Pakistan’s failure to chase the target, being bowled out for 157, Amir’s spell stood out as a highlight of the match.
Amir’s career has been marked by both brilliance and controversy, yet his ability to deliver in crucial matches, particularly in T20 World Cups, has cemented his legacy as one of Pakistan’s finest bowlers.
