'It is going to be a big challenge getting back into international cricket'

Keen to put the past behind him after being included in the Pakistan limited-overs squad, left-arm pacer Muhammad Aamir has said he is physically and mentally ready for a comeback to international cricket. 

Pakistan Cricket Board included Aamir in the ODI and T20 squads for the away series against New Zealand, giving him a lifeline to make amends for his spot-fixing act in 2010. Aamir though admitted that making a comeback against an aggressive Kiwi outfit will not be easy.

"If I get a chance to play in New Zealand it will not be easy bowling to this (changed) approach but mentally I am prepared for a hard comeback," Aamir told PTI. 

Knowing the divide in Pakistan cricket regarding his international return, Aamir, whose visa process also remains uncertain with the team leaving for New Zealand on January 10, admits that winning back the favour of one and all will not be easy.

"One thing is clear to me I will have to perform really well to win back the confidence of my fans. I am sure they are behind me and I will not let them down," the 23-year old said.

A PCB official said legal information with regard to Aamir's conviction and departure from the United Kingdom has been submitted with the New Zealand consulate.

The official also informed that if response is positive than Aamir's visa application will be filed with the consulate when it reopens after Christmas and New Year holidays on Monday. 

Aamir, who served a five-year ban and jail time for indulging in spot-fixing during the 2010 tour of England, also admitted that he has been lucky to get a second chance in the game and understands the feelings of his critics. 

"I feel bad because of their (critics) strong comments, but it is their opinion the best I can do is repay the faith and support those who feel I should get another chance to play again for Pakistan have shown in me," he said.

Aamir's spot fixing ban expired last September but the ICC gave him special permission to resume playing domestic cricket earlier in April 2015.

"I know cricket especially ODIs and T20s have undergone changes and the attitude of batsmen is very different now. So it is going to be a big challenge getting back into this mould. But the good thing is that I have followed cricket and other teams closely in the last one year," he said.