Summary David White also supported Amir's inclusion in the Pakistan squad.
WELLINGTON (AFP) - New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum says tainted bowler Mohammad Amir should be given “the benefit of the doubt” and allowed to play for Pakistan in limited-overs matches in New Zealand this month.
Amir has been named in the Pakistan squad which will play three Twenty20 and as many one-day games against New Zealand over the next three weeks but his participation depends on New Zealand immigration officials allowing him a visa.
The fast bowler was only 18 when he handed a five-year ban from cricket in 2011 for his involvement in spot fixing.
He also served three months of a six month prison term.
His ban, imposed by the International Cricket Council, has now ended and McCullum said Sunday he should be allowed to resume his career.
“He was a very young man at the time and he s gone through a sound rehabilitation program,” McCullum said.
“If he gets out on the field against us, then you play against the man you re playing against, not a man who may have made some mistakes as a youngster,” added the explosive batsman.
New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White also supported Amir s inclusion in the Pakistan squad but stressed that was a personal view and not that of his organization.
“He was a very, very young man, a boy really (when he was suspended),” White said.
“He showed remorse at the time, admitted to it. He s gone through all the rehabilitation and education as prescribed by the ICC.
“I m personally comfortable with him coming to New Zealand and playing,” added White.
New Zealand s immigration department issued a statement before Christmas saying it had not yet received a visa application for Amir and would consider one when it is received.
A decision is likely next week.
