Amir claims hat-trick in PSL debut

Pakistan seamer Mohammad Amir claimed a hat-trick in his first match of the Pakistan Super League, helping inspire his side to a big win.

Amir has been making a splash in cricket circles since his return from a five-year ban for his role in Pakistan's spot-fixing scandal at Lord's in 2010.

He made a successful return to national colours on Pakistan's tour of New Zealand, and has continued that good form into Pakistan's revamped domestic T20 tournament with the Karachi Kings. 

The Lahore Qalanders were struggling to set a competitive total at 4-115 when Amir started the 19th over. 

Dwayne Bravo had slashed the previous ball to third man, but when he aimed a midwicket swipe at the next ball his leg stump was pegged back.

Pakistan batsman Zohaib Khan all but gifted his wicket, aiming a ramp shot at the left-armer and succeeding only in scooping a simple catch to wicketkeeper Saifullah Bangash.

Suddenly finding himself on a hat-trick, West Indies import Kevin Cooper played all around a ball searing in at the stumps from the left-armer to be sent packing lbw.

Amir finished 3-27 from his four overs as Lahore were restricted to 8-125 in their 20 overs. Wicketkeeper batsman Mohammad Rizwan top scored with 37.

In reply, Brisbane Heat star Lendl Simmons continued the impressive form he showed at the back end of the KFC Big Bash League, smashing an unbeaten 62 from 46. 

Karachi collected a seven-wicket win with more than four overs to spare.