Former Pakistan coach Waqar Younis has called on the International Cricket Council to grant clemency to Mohammad Amir with regards to his ban for spot-fixing.

Amir was on Wednesday released from prison after serving half of a six-month sentence handed down for his role in the corruption that marred the Test against England at Lord's in August 2010.

However, while he may be back out on the street, Amir still has a five-year ban from the ICC hanging over his head, which prevents the bowler from playing any competitive cricket until September 2015.

Amir was just 18 at the time of the offense and as a result Waqar believes that the ICC should show some leniency towards him.

"If the ban reduction can be considered then they should do that, every law gives margin," he said.

"It's difficult for a fast bowler to keep himself fit if he is not allowed to play even club cricket. We must have sympathy with him because he is so young. His talent will not only be missed by me but also by the Pakistan team.

"I don't know whether he would be able to play or not, whether people of Pakistan will accept him or not," he said. We accept that the incident happened and Pakistan's name was tainted, but I think other players will also learn from this."

Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif were also convicted in the spot-fixing scandal but the duo remain in prison as they were handed longer sentences of 30 and 12 months respectively.