ACB seeks UAE residency visas for players, officials

KABUL (Pajhwok): The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is seeking UAE residency visas for about two dozen players and officials, says a news report.

On the face of it, the ACB decision is aimed at eschewing visa glitches for members of their national squad, who are currently in Abu Dhabi to meet visa formalities and attend a training camp.

The residence visas, ESPN Cricinfo reported, would let the players and officials stay in the UAE for a longer period of time and ensure their eligibility to apply for visas of other countries without having to be physically present in Afghanistan.

Ahead of their tour of Ireland, the ACB is likely to apply for UK visas for the team from Abu Dhabi

A statement from the board said: “ACB often hosts other countries in the UAE, so it is necessary that a number of officials and players must obtain UAE residency and/or residence permits.”

The ACB opted to arrange a training and preparation camp for the Afghan players under the supervision of some best coaches in the UAE before upcoming cricket events.

Afghanistan are expected to play a three-match ODI series against Pakistan soon in the UAE. The series was to be played in August 2021, but had to be deferred due to logistical issues.

Afghanistan are scheduled to visit Ireland in August for a five-match T20I series.

PAN Monitor/mud