Azhar buries hatchet with Amir

The rehabilitation of Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Amir took another step forward Monday with one-day captain Azhar Ali welcoming him into the side for the series against New Zealand.

Ali initially refused to play alongside Amir who is making his return to the international scene after a prison term and five-year ban for spot-fixing.

But on the eve of the first ODI against New Zealand in Wellington, Ali said he had talked to Amir and aims to "get the best" out of the 23-year-old quick bowler if he starts.

"We have moved on. We are united and looking forward to the challenge," Ali said on Sunday.

"Whatever my stance was, my job is to lead and keep harmony in the dressing room."

“He bowled well in the T20s. My job is to try to get the best out of him," Ali said.