USA wicketkeeper-batter Shayan Jahangir is set to miss the first ODI of the tri-nation series against Namibia over visa issues. The series involving hosts Oman is set to kick off on February 8 and it is unclear whether he will arrive in time for USA's second ODI against Oman on February 12.
Jahangir, a Pakistani national, earlier missed out on USA's preparatory camp for the tri-series that was held in India. The decision over the venue of the camp taken at short notice effectively forced him out of the touring party to India due to the time consuming nature of Indian visa allotment to Pakistani nationals. However, Pakistani nationals have had no historical issues obtaining an Oman visa and it is not fully known if there was an administrative lapse in filing for his visa.
The visa hurdle may have hit Shayan when he would have least desired after cementing himself as the opener with a thunderous hundred against Nepal in October last year, in USA's last ODI assignment. It is understood that Smit Patel will step in to assume the role of the opener alongside Andries Gous.
"Shayan is an important part of our team, and we absolutely want him in Oman with the team. Unfortunately, due to an administrative issue with his visa for entry, through no fault of his own, Shayan was not able to travel with the squad and will not be able to compete at the upcoming ICC CWC League 2 fixtures. We're disappointed and will work to understand why this unfortunate decision has been made" said a USA Cricket spokesperson when contacted for a comment over the incident.
