Mohammad Amir | Pakistan Cricket Player

Mohammad Amir is a famous Pakistani cricketer known for his amazing fast bowling. Born in a small village, he showed great talent for cricket from a very young age. Despite coming from a humble background, his hard work and passion for the game helped him reach the top. Discovered by a cricket legend, Amir quickly became a star, impressing everyone with his speed and skill. However, his career faced a major setback in 2010 when he was involved in a spot-fixing scandal, leading to a ban from cricket. Despite this, Amir made a remarkable comeback in 2016, showing incredible determination and proving his talent once again on the international stage. His journey from playing cricket in the streets to shining on the world stage, overcoming challenges along the way, is truly inspiring and exciting.

Personal Information

Full Name	Mohammad Amir
Date of Birth	April 13, 1992
Place of Birth	Gujjar Khan, Punjab, Pakistan
Nationality	Pakistani
Height	6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters)
Batting Style	Left-handed
Bowling Style	Left-arm fast Bowler
Role	Bowler

Early Life and Background

Family Background:

Mohammad Amir was born on April 13, 1992, in Gujjar Khan, a small town in Punjab, Pakistan. He comes from a humble family. His parents were not very wealthy, but they always supported Amir’s passion for cricket.

Education:

Amir’s formal education took a backseat as he focused more on cricket. He attended a local school in Gujjar Khan but soon shifted his focus entirely to pursue a career in cricket.

Early Interest in Cricket:

From a young age, Amir showed a keen interest in cricket. His talent was evident when he played street cricket, impressing local coaches and eventually being picked up for more structured training.

Youth Career:

Amir’s cricketing journey began at the age of 11 when he joined a local cricket academy. His impressive performances in youth cricket earned him a spot in the Pakistan U-19 team. He was part of the squad that played in the U-19 World Cup, where his skills caught the eyes of national selectors.

Domestic Career

Teams Played For:

Mohammad Amir has played for several teams in his domestic cricket career. These teams include:

• National Bank of Pakistan: This is where he started his domestic career.
• Karachi Kings: A team in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
• Essex: An English county cricket club.
• Punjab: A regional team in Pakistan.
• Rawalpindi Rams: Another regional team in Pakistan.

First-Class Debut:

Mohammad Amir made his first-class debut in 2008 for the National Bank of Pakistan. First-class cricket is a high-level domestic game that lasts for several days. It was in these matches that Amir showcased his fast bowling skills and caught the attention of selectors.

List A Debut:

Mohammad Amir’s first-class career has also been noteworthy. Playing in 69 matches and taking 266 wickets, Amir has been a consistent wicket-taker in the longer format. His best bowling figures of 7 for 61 highlight his ability to dismantle batting lineups. Amir’s performance in first-class cricket has been characterized by his ability to bowl long, probing spells and his capacity to generate movement both in the air and off the pitch.

Twenty20 Debut:

Twenty20 (T20) cricket is a shorter format of the game, with each team playing 20 overs. Amir made his T20 debut for the Rawalpindi Rams in 2008. His fast bowling was particularly effective in this format, as he could quickly change the course of the game with a few good deliveries.

Notable Performances:

Throughout his domestic career, Mohammad Amir has had many notable performances. Some highlights include:

• National Bank of Pakistan: Mohammad Amir took several key wickets in crucial matches, helping his team win important games. In his first-class career for National Bank of Pakistan, he played 34 matches and took 116 wickets at an average of 24.28. His best bowling figures in an innings were 6 for 84.
• Karachi Kings: In the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Amir was often the standout bowler, taking many wickets and helping his team reach the playoffs. Over his PSL career with Karachi Kings, he played 59 matches and took 54 wickets, with an economy rate of 7.26. His best figures in a match were 4 for 25.
• Essex: While playing in England, Amir performed exceptionally well in county matches, earning praise from fans and critics alike. During his stint with Essex, he played 11 first-class matches, taking 36 wickets at an average of 23.16. His best performance was 5 for 18 in an innings.

Awards and Recognitions:

Amir’s domestic performances earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Player of the Match awards in the PSL and domestic tournaments. His early success in domestic cricket was a key factor in his rapid rise to the national team.

International Career

International Debut:

Mohammad Amir made his international debut at a young age and quickly became a key player for Pakistan in all formats of the game.

Test Debut:

Amir made his Test debut on July 4, 2009, against Sri Lanka. This was a significant moment for the young bowler as he showcased his talent by taking six wickets in the match, including the prized wicket of Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara in both innings.

ODI Debut:

His One Day International (ODI) debut came on July 30, 2009, also against Sri Lanka. Amir impressed everyone by taking three wickets and maintaining an economy rate of 4.50. Additionally, he contributed 23 valuable runs with the bat.

T20I Debut:

Mohammad Amir’s debut in Twenty20 International (T20I) cricket was on June 7, 2009, against England during the ICC World Twenty20. He took the wicket of Ravi Bopara with only his second ball, conceding just one run in his first over. This performance marked the beginning of a promising international career.

Major Achievements:

Amir’s international career began with a bang, as he played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s victory in the 2009 ICC World Twenty20. He quickly established himself as one of the most promising fast bowlers in the world.

• 2009 ICC World Twenty20: Amir was instrumental in Pakistan’s triumph in the 2009 ICC World Twenty20. His consistent performance with the ball, especially in the final against Sri Lanka, where he bowled a maiden over and took the wicket of Tillakaratne Dilshan, was crucial for Pakistan’s victory.
• Youngest to 50 Test Wickets: Amir became one of the youngest bowlers to take 50 Test wickets, achieving this milestone at the age of just 18. This record highlighted his exceptional talent and potential.
• 2017 ICC Champions Trophy: Amir was instrumental in Pakistan’s victory in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy. In the final against India, he took crucial wickets of top-order batsmen, including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shikhar Dhawan, leading Pakistan to a historic win.

Key Performances:

One of Amir’s most celebrated performances was his spell against India in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final. He dismantled the top order by taking three key wickets, leading Pakistan to victory.

• 2017 ICC Champions Trophy Final: In one of the most memorable performances of his career, Amir took 3 for 16 against India in the final. His spell was crucial in restricting India to a low score, helping Pakistan secure a comprehensive victory.
• Best Test Bowling Figures: Amir’s best Test bowling figures are 6 for 44 against the West Indies. This performance showcased his skill and control as a fast bowler.

Records and Milestones:

Amir holds several records and has achieved numerous milestones throughout his career.

Youngest Bowler to Reach 100 International Wickets:

Amir is one of the youngest bowlers to reach 100 international wickets, demonstrating his consistency and ability to perform under pressure.

Notable Records:

• Youngest Player to Take Five Wickets in an Innings: Amir became the third youngest player to take five wickets in an innings at 17 years and 257 days.
• Most Runs in an Innings (by Batting Position): Amir holds the record for the highest runs in an innings (58) by a batsman at the number 11 position in ODIs.
• Highest Partnership for the Tenth Wicket in ODIs: Amir, along with Saeed Ajmal, set the record for the second-highest partnership for the tenth wicket in ODIs, adding 103 runs.
• Most Consecutive Matches Missed: Amir missed 78 consecutive matches for Pakistan due to his ban, ranking him tenth in this category.

More Detailed Information and Stats About Mohammad Amir

World Twenty20 Championships:

• 2009 ICC World Twenty20: Amir continued to impress during the tournament, taking a wicket in his opening spell in six of the seven games he played, including the final. He bowled his quickest delivery in the final against Sri Lanka at 152 km/h (94.4 mph). His most important moment came in the opening over of the final, where he dismissed Tillakaratne Dilshan with a skiddy bouncer.
• 2010 World Twenty20: In the initial stages of the 2010 World Cup, Amir took three wickets in a five-wicket maiden over against Australia, setting a world record for T20 cricket.

Pakistan Cricket Board Contract:

Despite his exceptional performance in the 2009 ICC World Twenty20, Amir was initially ignored by the Pakistan Cricket Board for a central contract. Later, he was awarded a ‘C’ category contract.

Making a Mark in the International Arena:

• 2009: Amir scored 73 runs against New Zealand, a record for a number 10 batsman in ODI history until Ravi Rampaul surpassed it. He formed a notable partnership with Saeed Ajmal, adding 103 runs in a chase that fell short by 7 runs.
• 2010: Amir took his first five-wicket haul in a Test match against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. He was instrumental in Pakistan’s first Test match win against Australia in 15 years, taking seven wickets in the match and earning the Man of the Match award.
• 2010 England Tour: Amir became the youngest player to take a five-wicket haul in England. He also became the youngest player to take 50 Test wickets, earning praise from former international cricketers. He took 19 wickets in the series at an average of 18.3, including two five-wicket hauls.

International Comeback:

After a five-year ban, Amir made his domestic comeback on March 13, 2015, playing for Omar Associates in the Grade II Patron’s Trophy. He took a wicket in his first comeback over.

• 2015-2016 Comeback: On August 19, 2015, Amir was declared free to play all forms of cricket. He returned to international cricket on January 15, 2016, in a T20I match against New Zealand. In February 2016, Amir took a hat-trick in a Pakistan Super League match for Karachi Kings.
• 2016 Asia Cup: Amir produced one of his best spells against India in the 2016 Asia Cup, taking 3 wickets for 18 runs. Despite Pakistan’s modest total, Amir’s performance was a highlight of the tournament.
• 2017 ICC Champions Trophy: Amir played a crucial role in Pakistan’s Champions Trophy win, particularly in the final against India. He took three key wickets, helping Pakistan secure a historic victory.

2019 Cricket World Cup:

In May 2019, Amir was named in Pakistan’s squad for the 2019 Cricket World Cup. On June 12, 2019, he took his first five-wicket haul in ODIs against Australia. He finished the tournament as Pakistan’s leading wicket-taker with 17 dismissals in eight matches.

Retirement from Test Cricket:

In July 2019, Mohammad Amir announced his retirement from Test cricket. He ended his Test career with 144 wickets at an average of 30.47 from 36 matches.

International Retirement and Return to National Team:

On December 17, 2020, Amir announced his retirement from international cricket, citing ill-treatment from the Pakistan Cricket Board. However, on March 24, 2024, Amir reversed his decision to retire and made himself available for selection ahead of the T20 World Cup scheduled for June that year. He was included in the squad for the T20I home series against New Zealand in April 2024. In his comeback match, the second T20I of the series played at Rawalpindi, he claimed two wickets in a seven-wicket win.

Playing Style and Skills

Batting Style and Strengths:

Amir is a left-handed batsman known for his ability to play crucial lower-order innings. While not a specialist batsman, he has played several important knocks, including a highest score of 73* in ODIs.

Bowling Style and Specialties:

Mohammad Amir is a left-arm fast bowler renowned for his ability to swing the ball both ways. His pace, combined with his skillful swing, makes him a formidable opponent. His signature delivery is the in-swinging yorker, which has taken many wickets at crucial moments.

Fielding Abilities:

Mohammad Amir is an agile fielder with a strong arm. His ability to field in the deep and close-catching positions adds value to his role in the team.

Signature Moves/Deliveries:

Mohammad Amir’s in-swinging yorker is his trademark delivery, often used to great effect in the death overs of limited-overs matches. His ability to bowl fast, accurate bouncers also makes him a dangerous bowler.

Stats and Records

Test Matches:

• Matches Played: 36
• Runs Scored: 751
• Batting Average: 13.41
• Centuries/Half-Centuries: 0/0
• Wickets Taken: 119
• Bowling Average: 30.47
• Best Bowling: 6/44

In Test cricket, Amir’s best performance came against the West Indies, where he took 6 wickets for 44 runs. He has been a key bowler for Pakistan in the longest format, known for his ability to swing the ball in all conditions.

His batting in Test matches, while not as prominent as his bowling, provided valuable contributions in the lower order. Scoring 751 runs with an average of 13.41, Amir had several innings where he supported the tail and added crucial runs to the team’s total.

ODI Matches:

• Matches Played: 61
• Runs Scored: 363
• Batting Average: 18.15
• Centuries/Half-Centuries: 0/2
• Wickets Taken: 81
• Bowling Average: 29.62
• Best Bowling: 5/30

In ODIs, Mohammad Amir established himself as a reliable wicket-taker and a bowler who could perform under pressure. His most memorable ODI performance came against Sri Lanka, where he took 5 wickets for 30 runs. This spell was a classic display of swing bowling, as he dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup with precision and control.

Additionally, his lower-order batting contributed valuable runs on several occasions, with a batting average of 18.15 and two half-centuries to his name. This all-round ability added depth to Pakistan’s lineup.

T20I Matches:

• Matches Played: 58
• Runs Scored: 65
• Batting Average: 7.22
• Centuries/Half-Centuries: 0/0
• Wickets Taken: 64
• Bowling Average: 23.21
• Best Bowling: 4/13

In T20Is, Amir’s best bowling figures are 4 for 13, showcasing his ability to restrict the opposition in the shortest format. His economy rate of 7.27 reflects his skill in containing runs while taking wickets.

Domestic and Other T20 Leagues:

T20 Leagues

Mohammad Amir’s participation in various T20 leagues around the world has been a significant aspect of his career. Playing in 285 T20 matches and taking 330 wickets with best bowling figures of 6 for 17, Amir has proven himself to be one of the most effective bowlers in the shortest format of the game. His ability to deliver consistent performances has made him a valuable asset for teams in leagues such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

• Pakistan Super League (PSL): In the Pakistan Super League, Amir has been a standout performer for Karachi Kings. His presence in the team has been instrumental in their success over the seasons. Amir’s ability to bowl in the powerplay and death overs has made him one of the most sought-after bowlers in the league. His pace, coupled with his ability to swing the ball, has troubled many top-order batsmen in the PSL.

• Caribbean Premier League (CPL): Mohammad Amir’s best T20 figures of 6 for 17 came in the Caribbean Premier League, showcasing his skill in different conditions. Playing for teams like Barbados Tridents, Amir adapted quickly to the Caribbean pitches, which often offer different challenges compared to those in the subcontinent. His ability to bowl effectively on these pitches demonstrates his versatility and adaptability as a bowler.
• Bangladesh Premier League (BPL): In the Bangladesh Premier League, Amir has continued to impress with his performances. His contributions have been vital for teams like Khulna Titans and Rajshahi Kings. Amir’s knack for taking crucial wickets at key moments has helped his teams win many tight matches. His experience and skill have made him a go-to bowler in the BPL, particularly in high-pressure situations.

Captaincy and Leadership

Captaincy Record:

Amir has not captained the Pakistan national team but has led various domestic teams and franchises. His leadership in these teams has been characterized by his strategic thinking and ability to inspire young bowlers.

Leadership Style:

Amir’s leadership style is based on leading by example. He is known for his work ethic, dedication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. His experience and knowledge make him a natural leader on the field.

Notable Series Wins:

Although not as a captain, Amir has been part of several notable series wins, including the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, where his exceptional bowling performance in the final supports Fakhar Zaman amazing batting in Pakistan’s victory.

Off the Field

Personal Life:

Family

Mohammad Amir was born on April 13, 1992, in a small village called Changa Bangial, located in the Gujar Khan district of Punjab, Pakistan. He comes from a humble background, and his family has always been a significant source of support throughout his career. Amir is one of seven siblings, which means he grew up in a large family. His parents, especially his father, were very supportive of his cricketing ambitions, despite their limited means. His father worked hard to provide for the family, and Amir’s journey from a small village to international cricket fame is often seen as a story of perseverance and determination.

Spouse/Partner

In September 2016, Mohammad Amir married Narjis Khatun, a British-Pakistani. Their relationship was quite public and attracted a lot of media attention. Narjis stood by Amir during some of the most challenging times in his career, including his ban from cricket and subsequent return. Their bond has been a source of strength for Amir, and he often speaks highly of her support and understanding. The couple’s wedding was a significant event, covered extensively by the media, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary elements.

Children

Mohammad Amir and Narjis Khatun have two daughters, Minsa and Zoya. Amir often shares moments from his family life on social media, showing his deep affection for his children. His daughters are a central part of his life, and he frequently mentions how they inspire him to strive for better performances on the field. Family is crucial to Amir, and he enjoys spending time with his children whenever he is not playing cricket.

Hobbies and Interests:

Apart from cricket, Mohammad Amir has various hobbies and interests that help him relax and enjoy life. He is an avid fan of football and often plays the sport to stay fit and unwind. Watching football matches, especially those of his favorite teams, is something he enjoys during his free time.

Amir also loves music and has a keen interest in listening to different genres. He often shares his favorite tracks with his fans on social media. Traveling is another passion of his; he loves exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. This passion is often combined with his cricket tours, where he tries to make the most of his time in different countries by visiting local attractions and trying out local cuisines.

Another interest of Amir is fashion. He likes to keep up with the latest trends and is often seen sporting stylish outfits. His sense of style is well appreciated by his fans, and he occasionally collaborates with fashion brands.

Philanthropy and Charity Work:

Mohammad Amir is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He understands the importance of giving back to the community, especially considering his own humble beginnings. Amir has been involved in various charitable activities, focusing mainly on providing support to underprivileged children and promoting sports among the youth.

He often visits orphanages and hospitals, spending time with children and providing financial assistance where needed. Amir believes in using his fame and resources to make a positive impact on society. He has also supported causes related to education, understanding that it is a powerful tool for changing lives.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Amir actively participated in relief efforts, helping distribute food and essentials to those affected by the crisis. His charitable work extends beyond Pakistan, as he has also contributed to international causes, reflecting his commitment to making a difference globally.

Business Ventures:

In addition to his cricket career, Mohammad Amir has ventured into the business world. He understands the importance of securing his future and creating multiple streams of income. One of his notable business ventures is his involvement in the fashion industry. Amir has launched his own clothing line, which reflects his personal style and caters to a wide audience. His brand includes casual wear, sportswear, and traditional Pakistani outfits, blending modern trends with cultural heritage.

Amir has also invested in real estate, recognizing the long-term benefits of property investments. He has properties in Pakistan and is exploring opportunities abroad. This venture not only provides financial stability but also showcases his business acumen.

Controversies and Challenges

Major Controversies:

Spot-Fixing Scandal:

In 2010, Mohammad Amir’s career took a dramatic turn due to a major controversy. During a Test match against England at Lord’s, Amir was found guilty of spot-fixing. This involved deliberately bowling no-balls in exchange for money. This scandal shook the cricket world and led to severe consequences for Amir. He, along with teammates Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif, was banned from cricket for five years by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Additionally, Amir was sentenced to six months in a UK prison.

Public and Media Backlash:

The spot-fixing scandal brought immense public and media backlash. Amir, once hailed as a promising young talent, faced harsh criticism and disappointment from fans worldwide. Many felt betrayed by his actions, especially given his young age and the high hopes placed on his shoulders. This period was incredibly tough for Amir, as he had to deal with not only legal consequences but also the tarnishing of his reputation.

Return to International Cricket:

After serving his ban, Amir faced another major controversy regarding his return to international cricket. Many former players and fans were divided on whether he should be allowed to play for Pakistan again. Some felt that he had paid his dues and deserved a second chance, while others believed that his actions had permanently damaged his credibility. Despite this, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) decided to reintegrate him into the team, leading to a mix of support and criticism from the cricketing community.

Injuries:

Early Career Injuries:

Throughout his career, Mohammad Amir has faced several injuries that have impacted his playing time. Early in his career, he struggled with a few minor injuries that affected his bowling rhythm and consistency. However, his determination and rigorous training helped him recover and perform at his best.

Post-Return Challenges:

After his return to cricket in 2016, Mohammad Amir faced additional injury challenges. His fitness was constantly under scrutiny, and he had to work hard to maintain his performance levels. Injuries, particularly to his legs and back, required him to undergo extensive rehabilitation. These injuries sometimes affected his ability to bowl long spells, especially in Test matches.

Management and Recovery:

Mohammad Amir’s management of injuries has been a critical aspect of his career. He has often spoken about the importance of fitness and recovery in maintaining his performance. His dedication to rehabilitation and maintaining peak physical condition has allowed him to overcome these setbacks and continue performing at a high level.

Comebacks:

Domestic Cricket Return:

Mohammad Amir made his return to domestic cricket in March 2015, playing for Omar Associates in the Grade II Patron’s Trophy. This was his first step towards regaining his form and proving his worth again. His performance in domestic cricket was closely watched, and he managed to impress with his bowling, taking wickets and showing glimpses of his old self.

International Comeback:

In January 2016, Mohammad Amir made his international comeback in a T20 match against New Zealand. This marked a significant moment in his career, as he had been away from international cricket for over five years. Despite facing criticism and skepticism, Amir quickly proved that he still had the skills and determination to compete at the highest level. His performance in the 2016 Asia Cup and the ICC World Twenty20 helped solidify his place in the team.

Champions Trophy 2017:

One of Mohammad Amir’s most notable comebacks was during the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy. He played a crucial role in Pakistan’s victory, particularly in the final against India. Amir’s spell in the final, where he took three key wickets, was a turning point in the match and highlighted his ability to perform under pressure. This performance earned him widespread praise and was a testament to his resilience and determination.

T20 World Cup 2024

In early 2024, the cricketing world was abuzz with the news of Mohammad Amir’s potential return to international cricket. After a brief hiatus and several years away from the national team, Amir announced his intentions to make a comeback in the T20 World Cup. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed his inclusion in the preliminary squad, citing his experience and proven track record in high-pressure situations as valuable assets for the team.

Legacy and Impact

Impact on the Game:

Mohammad Amir is widely regarded as one of the finest swing bowlers of his generation. His ability to swing the ball both ways, at high speed, has troubled many top batsmen. Amir’s mastery of swing bowling has made him a key player in all formats of the game. His skill set has inspired many young bowlers to emulate his techniques.

Inspirations and Mentorship:

Mohammad Amir has often credited legendary Pakistani bowler Wasim Akram as a major influence in his career. Wasim Akram’s guidance and mentorship have been crucial in Amir’s development as a bowler. Learning from one of the best swing bowlers in cricket history has helped Amir refine his skills and become a more effective bowler.

Quotes by/from Player:

By Mohammad Amir:

• “I always believe that if you work hard and stay focused, you can overcome any challenge.”
• “Cricket has given me so much, and I want to give back by helping young bowlers learn and grow.”
• “Every time I step onto the field, I remember why I play this game – for the love of it and for my country.”

About Mohammad Amir:

• Wasim Akram: “Amir has the potential to be one of the greatest bowlers. He has the talent and the drive to succeed.”
• Virat Kohli: “Amir is one of the toughest bowlers I have faced. His ability to swing the ball at pace is exceptional.”
• Sarfraz Ahmed: “Amir is a match-winner. His presence in the team gives us confidence, and his performances speak for themselves.”

Media and Endorsements

Media Appearances:

Amir has been featured in various television interviews and sports shows. He is also a regular guest on sports analysis programs like “Game On Hai” on PTV Sports.

Endorsements:

Amir has endorsed several brands, including Pepsi, for which he has appeared in numerous advertisements. He is also associated with CA Sports, a cricket equipment manufacturer, and has participated in marketing campaigns for their products. His endorsements have made him a recognizable face in the advertising world.

Future Plans

Post-Retirement Plans:

Amir has expressed a desire to stay connected to cricket after his playing days are over. He plans to take up coaching roles to pass on his knowledge and experience to young cricketers. He is also interested in cricket commentary and analysis, aiming to share his insights on the game.

Involvement in Cricket Post-Retirement:

Post-retirement, Amir aims to be involved in cricket development programs in Pakistan. He hopes to work with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to nurture young talent and improve the country’s cricketing infrastructure. His passion for the game ensures he will remain a significant figure in the cricketing community.

Conclusion

Mohammad Amir’s cricketing career is a story of talent, perseverance, and resilience. From his early days as a promising young bowler to his current status as a seasoned campaigner, Amir has consistently proven his worth on the field. His performances in international cricket, domestic matches, and T20 leagues around the world highlight his skill and dedication to the game.

Despite facing significant challenges, including a major scandal and a lengthy ban, Amir has shown remarkable resilience and determination to return to the top of his game. His ability to swing the ball, bowl with pace and control, and perform in high-pressure situations has made him one of the most respected bowlers in modern cricket.