By Zainab Shafiq 
Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi has criticized Mohammad Amir for his on-field behavior during the first two matches of the HBL Pakistan Super League season eight. Afridi revealed that he texted and scolded Amir for his unnecessary antics and advised him to not tarnish his reputation.
Amir lost his cool during the match between Karachi Kings and Islamabad United on Thursday. After emerging batsman Hassan Nawaz missed Amir’s first delivery, the left-arm pacer said a few words to him. Later, after dismissing Nawaz, Amir gave him a send-off. Amir also had a heated exchange with Tom Curran in the same match.
In an interview with a local TV channel, Afridi expressed his disappointment with Amir’s behavior and reminded him of the importance of controlling his aggression on the field.
“Is this the way to play? There are juniors around you, you are using bad words. There are fans who are disheartened to see that. Even we have used such words and sometimes, the camera used to catch us. There are families, kids watching you on television. Aggression is fine, but keep it under control,” Afridi said.
Afridi also mentioned Amir’s on-field clash with Peshawar Zalmi and Pakistan captain Babar Azam earlier this week. Babar had flicked Amir for a boundary during his 68-run knock, which frustrated the left-arm pacer, and he threw the next ball towards Babar in desperation.
“If you want to play for Pakistan, you have to play alongside Babar only. Will you be able to look at him in the eye? Can you play under his captaincy? Focus on your performance, control your aggression, and go back home peacefully,” Afridi said.
Afridi revealed that Amir understood his criticism and apologized for his behavior. “He said sorry and thanked me for noticing this,” Afridi concluded.
Amir has been a controversial figure in Pakistani cricket, and his behavior on the field has been under scrutiny for some time. Afridi’s words of caution are a reminder that cricketers, especially those playing at the highest level, need to set an example for the younger generation and be mindful of their actions both on and off the field.