Fast bowler Mohammad Amir has emphasized the importance of First-Class cricket in honing the skills of young fast bowlers. He believes that playing four-day cricket is essential for developing a comprehensive understanding of the art of fast bowling, which can later be translated into success in limited-overs formats. This sentiment echoes concerns expressed by multiple ex-cricketers about the growing trend of players prioritizing T20 leagues over domestic cricket, particularly Test cricket, which is considered the pinnacle of the sport.

Amir acknowledges that while talent can be identified in T20 leagues like the Pakistan Super League (PSL), it does not guarantee long-term success. He highlights the risk of young cricketers being lured by quick success in T20 leagues, cautioning them against becoming complacent or allowing success to inflate their egos.

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The left-arm fast bowler draws attention to the careers of seasoned domestic cricketers like Mir Hamza, Tabish Khan, and Mohammad Ali, who dedicatedly played domestic cricket across Pakistan before the advent of the PSL. Their commitment to domestic cricket laid the foundation for their success and longevity in the sport, serving as a testament to the value of consistent performance in traditional formats.

Amir’s perspective on the importance of First-Class cricket comes amidst his own decision to return to the Pakistan team after retiring in 2020. Despite not representing Pakistan in any format since his retirement, Amir has opted to make a comeback ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2024, following consultations with the new Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regime.