AUCKLAND – Mohammad Amir’s return to international cricket was momentous and mediocre as the convicted spot-fixer participated in Pakistan’s 16-run win over New Zealand in a Twenty20 on Friday.
Amir brought to an end a five-year exile from international cricket when he took to the field at Eden Park in the first match of Pakistan’s three-match series.
He was the only man not to bat in Pakistan’s innings of 171-8, after it batted on losing the toss, and he took 1-31 from his four overs, opening the bowling as Pakistan dismissed New Zealand for 155 in reply.
Opener Mohammad Hafeez top-scored with 61 from 47 balls in Pakistan’s competitive innings, but captain Shahid Afridi was his team’s match-winner, scoring 23, taking 2-26, and claiming three catches and a run-out.