Bangladesh have suffered a setback ahead of their three-match T20 series against Afghanistan, with Soumya Sarkar’s participation in the first game uncertain due to visa complications.
Sarkar may not arrive in the United Arab Emirates in time for the opening match of the series, which starts on 2 October in Sharjah. This uncertainty comes after regular captain Liton Das was ruled out of the series following a thigh muscle injury sustained during the Asia Cup. As a result, Soumya has been recalled to the T20 squad as Liton’s replacement.
Soumya earned his call-up after impressive performances in the National Cricket League T20 tournament, scoring 63 and 45 in the first two matches. He was seen training in Sylhet on Tuesday, but a BCB official told cricket media outlet Cricbuzz that he had not yet received his visa.
The official said, “He has not got his visa yet. We are waiting. If he gets it tomorrow, he will fly as soon as possible.”
The visa process could take up to three days, making Soumya’s involvement in the first match highly unlikely. The T20 series matches will be held on 2, 3 and 5 October, followed by a three-match ODI series between the two teams.
