Azhar Ali admits reconciling differences with recalled Amir

Karachi : Pakistan ODI skipper Azhar Ali has admitted that he has resolved his differences with tainted fast bowler Mohammad Amir ahead of the three-match series against New Zealand, which starts on Monday in Wellington.

Earlier, Amir’s inclusion in the 26-member training camp for the New Zealand tour generated divided opinions within the squad, with Azhar along with veteran all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez refusing to train with him.

The 30-year-old also appealed for resignation as the ODI skipper following Amir’s inclusion, but later agreed to continue his job after the Pakistan Cricket Board rejected his plea.

Reflecting on his current bonding with Amir, Azhar said that he and the recalled fast bowler had moved on and were looking forward to the challenge ahead, the Express Tribune reported.

Azhar, who admitted that his job was to maintain harmony in the dressing room, insisted that Amir bowled well in the recently-concluded T20 series and, therefore, he would try to get the best out of him in the upcoming series as well.

Amir, along with former skipper Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif, were found guilty of various offences of corrupt behaviour relating to the Lord’s Test between England and Pakistan in August 2010 by the independent Anti-Corruption Tribunal on February 5, 2011.

Considered as one of the most promising talents, Amir had taken 51 wickets in 14 Tests and 25 in 15 one-day internationals before he was handed a five-year ban for spot-fixing. (ANI)