(Web Desk) – Former Pakistan fast bowler Muhammad Amir has been selected by Kandahar Warriors in the Platinum category of the Afghanistan Premier League (APL) 2026 players’ draft.
Amir was the franchise’s first overall pick during the draft held at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, November 3. His selection places him among the tournament’s highest-paid player category, with Platinum overseas players set to receive $100,000.
The 34-year-old registered for the competition as a British national after acquiring UK citizenship in May 2026. The draft registration listed Pakistan as his country of residence. His British nationality may also affect the clearance requirements for his participation, potentially allowing him to play without a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Kandahar Warriors have assembled an international line-up that includes Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, England batter Joe Clarke and South African all-rounder Dwaine Pretorius. The franchise is led by Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan.
Amir has represented Pakistan in 36 Test matches, 61 One-Day Internationals and 62 T20 Internationals. His last appearance for the national team came against Ireland during the T20 World Cup in June 2024.
The left-arm pacer has continued playing franchise cricket since his international career with Pakistan ended, featuring in competitions including the Pakistan Super League, Bangladesh Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, Lanka Premier League and The Hundred.
More than 30 Pakistani cricketers registered for the APL draft, including Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Hasan Ali, Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique. However, the participation of other Pakistan-based players remains uncertain amid reported diplomatic tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan and questions surrounding PCB clearances.
The Afghanistan Premier League is scheduled to return with five teams. Its Platinum category is the highest overseas-player salary bracket, followed by Diamond, Gold, Silver and Emerging categories.
Amir’s selection makes him one of the prominent overseas names in the revived competition and gives Kandahar Warriors an experienced fast-bowling option for the tournament.
