USA wicketkeeper Shayan Jahangir to miss first ODI in tri-series versus Namibia due to visa issues

USA's wicketkeeper-batter Shayan Jahangir is set to miss the first ODI of the tri-nation series against Namibia due to visa issues. The series involving hosts Oman is set to kick off on Saturday, February 8, with the USA taking on Namibia at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turd 1). There is no certainty regarding Jahangir's arrival ahead of the USA's second ODI against Oman on February 12 at the same venue.

Jahangir, a Pakistani national, could not participate in the USA's preparatory camp for the tri-series which was held in India. The camp's venue was decided at short notice and it effectively forced him out of the touring contingent to India. This is because Indian visa allotment to Pakistani nationals generally takes up a considerable amount of time. However, Pakistani nationals have had no issues acquiring an Oman visa over the years and it is not fully known if there was an administrative lapse in filing for his visa.

The visa problem has come at the worst possible time for Shayan as he recently cemented his place in the side as the opener with a thunderous hundred against Nepal in October last year. Incidentally, this was the USA's last ODI assignment. It is understood that Smit Patel will don the wicketkeeping gloves in Shayan's absence while Andries Gous is another option.

"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.

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Shayan has played 24 ODIs and 14 T20Is for the USA, scoring 601 and 253 runs, respectively. He has two half-centuries in the two white-ball formats each. In ODIs, he has smashed two tons.

Meanwhile, the toss ahead of the USA versus Namibia encounter has been delayed due to a wet outfield. However, the weather forecast is quite promising and fans can hope for the action to commence later in the day.