Efforts are on to make Amir play

ISLAMABAD: Efforts are on to get Mohammad Amir ready for at least last one-dayer against England to judge his form and fitness before May 23, the deadline set for making any change in the World Cup squad.

A well-placed source accompanying the team in England has confirmed to The News that a fitness test is expected to be conducted on Amir Wednesday to judge the state of viral infection he is suffering from.

“It is generally believed that the virus infection is not all that serious and Amir if permitted by the specialist may well go on to play the final match against England. The chances of his playing last two matches against England cannot be ruled out,” one of the officials said.

Amir was not named on the original World Cup squad but was favourite to make it to the team provided he shows his form and fitness during the five-match one-day series against England. Already under pressure, Amir was diagnosed with low degree of chickenpox that according to doctors he has been carrying along.

“Every effort would be to see Amir play the last one-dayer against England at Leeds on May 19. Even if he is eighty percent fit he would be included on the team for the last two or at least the last one-dayer against hosts. The intensity of chickenpox is not high and as such there is a possibility he would be in a position to play the one or two matches of the series.”

Amir’s form has been a matter of concern for the Pakistan camp as he has taken only five wickets during the last fifteen one-dayers he has played. Still it is believed that his presence in the team would be vital for Pakistan chances in the World Cup. Pakistan camp is pinning hopes on his fitness.

“One good performance could earn Amir a place on the team for the World Cup. Would he be able to clear tests Wednesday, he would turn favourite to play at least one of the last two matches? His fitness is the first hurdle and then comes his form and performance.”