Amir to undergo fitness test today

ISLAMABAD: Efforts are on to get fast bowler Mohammad Amir ready for at least last One-Day International 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’ on Tuesday that a fitness test is expected to be conducted on Amir today (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 ODI against England,” one of the officials said.

Amir was not named in 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 the doctors he has been carrying along.

“Every effort would be made to see Amir play the last One-Dayer at Leeds on May 19. Even if he is 80 per cent fit he would be included in the team for the last two or at least the last One-Dayer against the 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,” the source said. Amir’s form has been a matter of concern for the Pakistan camp as he has taken only five wickets during the last 15 One-Dayers. Still it is believed that his presence in the team would be vital for Pakistan’s chances in the World Cup. Pakistan camp is pinning hopes on his fitness. “One good performance could earn Amir a place in the World Cup team,” the source said.