Waqar excited by Amir return

Pakistan's head coach Waqar Younis expressed excitement Thursday over the imminent return of Mohammad Amir following a five-year ban for spot-fixing.

Amir, 23, is favourite to get the selectors' nod for a tour of New Zealand, where Pakistan will play three Twenty20s and three one-day internationals.

The squad for the Twenty20s is likely to be announced on Friday.

Waqar, himself a fast bowler, said Amir had plenty to offer.

"I am very excited over his comeback," Waqar told AFP. "Amir is on the right path and has worked really hard in the fitness camp and I believe this kid has plenty to offer to Pakistan cricket," he added.

Waqar said Amir needed support.