PCB picks psychologist for Amir

Maqbool A Babri likely to start work with banned pacer soon.

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has chosen a psychologist to work with fast-bowler Mohammad Amir who is serving a five-year ban by the International Cricket Council’s (ICC).

Maqbool A Babri, also known as Max Babri, is a practicing psychotherapist and a certified clinical hypnotherapist will be working with the pacer. He is also a visiting Professor at Punjab University. The PCB, following Amir’s release from prison, announced that it will plan the bowler’s rehabilitation.

Although the ICC bars a banned player from cricketing activities, PCB chief Zaka Ashraf said that running a rehabilitation programme will not be an issue.

“The ICC actually encourages such acts,” Ashraf told The Express Tribune. “Amir will be in a better position to help others after this programme. His ban is only on his on-field activities and the rehabilitation will start as soon as he returns to Pakistan.”

Amir’s brother, Mohammad Ijaz, told The Express Tribune that the fast-bowler was in the UAE on a personal trip and was expected to return in a week’s time.

Mentor hails PCB’s decision 

Meanwhile, Amir’s mentor Asif Bajwa hailed the PCB’s move, terming it important for the fast-bowler.

“It is a positive development for Amir,” said Bajwa. “He’s the sort of chap who learns very quickly. He’ll definitely be in a better place after working with a professional psychologist.”

Published in The Express Tribune, June 9^th, 2012.