Aamer Sohail

Mohammad Aamer Sohail Ali is a Pakistani cricket commentator and former cricketer. He was born on 14 September 1966 in Lahore.

Career

Sohail began his domestic career when he made his first-class debut in 1983. He played as an aggressive left-handed opening batsman and occasionally bowled left-arm spin. His professional playing career spanned ten years, during which he appeared in 195 first-class matches. He also participated in 261 List A Limited Overs matches.

The cricketer made his international debut for the national team in a 1990 one-day International against Sri Lanka. He became an important member of the Pakistani squad that won the 1992 Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Throughout his international tenure, he played 47 Test matches and 156 One Day Internationals for Pakistan.

Sohail served as captain for Pakistan in six Tests during 1998. He holds the distinction of being the first Pakistani captain to defeat South Africa in a Test Match. Between 1996 and 1998, he led the team through 22 One Day Internationals. During this period, he won nine matches and maintained a batting average of 41.5.

He also acted as the acting captain against the West Indies in Sharjah. A notable moment occurred during the 1996 World Cup Quarter Final in Bangalore against India. While chasing a target of 287, Sohail and Saeed Anwar provided a strong start for Pakistan. After Anwar departed with the score at 109 for one, Sohail hit a four from Venkatesh Prasad. He reportedly pointed his finger aggressively at the Indian seamer following the shot. The next delivery bowled him out, which preceded a batting collapse that eliminated Pakistan from the tournament.

Sohail retired from professional cricket in 2001. He later transitioned into cricket administration by serving as the chief selector for the national team. His first term in this role ended in January 2004 when Wasim Bari replaced him. He received a second appointment as chief selector on 4 February 2014.

He currently works as a cricket broadcaster.

Personal life

On 18 August 2011, Sohail announced his decision to join the Pakistan Muslim League (N). He joined the political party led by Nawaz Sharif. According to Sohail, he believes the country requires seasoned leadership which the PML-N provides.

Awards and recognition

Sohail won 14 Player of the Match awards during his 156 One Day International appearances. This achievement results in a ratio of one award every 11.1 matches. This figure represents the highest ratio in this format for retired Pakistani players. His opening partner, Saeed Anwar, holds a higher total of 28 awards in 247 matches.