AMIR SET TO URN A PLACE IN HISTORY

PAKISTAN pace spearhead Mohammad Amir is set to return for a Champions Trophy final against India that is “bigger than the Ashes”.

There will certainly be more people watching the game on television between the two old rivals at the Oval than will view the battle for the urn.

The current record for an audience in India alone of 340million for a cricket match is set to be broken.

And if Pakistan are to win their first ICC knockout game against their neighbours in four attempts the return of Amir (above) to their skilful bowling unit after a back problem will be a big boost.

Bowling coach and former Surrey stalwart Azhar Mahmood said: “Amir bowled in training without any problem whatsoever. The back spasm took two days to get over. He’s better now.

“Going into a final you want your experienced players to be fully fit.

“India v Pakistan is never a dull game and this is an ICC final. Not since the World T20 final have we met at this stage so it’s a big match and the pressure is high for both sides.”

Security concerns means Pakistan play all their home games in the United Arab Emirates, but India will not tour there either.

Azhar added: “It is massive. India refuse to play against us, but on the biggest stage it’s India v Pakistan and like the Ashes. It is bigger than the Ashes and expectation is high from both nations, crazy about cricket.”

If Amir is not right he will make way for Rumman Raees, who was outstanding against England on debut in the semi-final.

Azhar said: “It’s the best combination of bowlers I’ve worked with as a Pakistan coach.

“Surrey is my second home, so I have home advantage and will tell the boys what to do out there.”