Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq believes that Mohammad Amir has what it takes to be the best bowler in the world.

There has been a lot of talk recently about Amir making his comeback to the Pakistan Test team in the forthcoming four-match Test series in England. The Pakistan fast bowler was jailed and banned from cricket after he and Mohammad Asif were caught bowling no-balls to order on instructions from then captain Salman Butt at Lord’s in 2010.

He has played ODI games for Pakistan since his ban was lifted, but the England tour marks his return to Test cricket. And his captain Misbah, believes Amir, who was one of the best bowlers in world cricket at the time of his ban, has lost none of his skill.

‘If you look at his bowling speed, swing and control – it’s there,’ said Misbah. In his 14 Tests before his ban, Amir took 51 wickets at an average of under 30 apiece.

‘He can still be the best bowler in the world. Whatever form of the game he has played since his comeback, he has done well,’ said Misbah.

‘He knows he is under pressure but he is handling it well. This is a good chance for him to come here, the place where he had those problems, and show the world he is there to perform and deliver for the team. It is a chance to win back all his fans. It’s a great opportunity and he’s working hard.’

Misbah has also advised the bowler to ignore the hecklers as he is expected to have a hostile reception from the English fans.

‘It might happen – you can always hear voices. The best way is to concentrate on your skills and your duties and Amir has to focus on his game and what he has to do. He is doing well.’

The four-match Test series between Pakistan and England starts on July 14 at Lord’s.

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