The main T20 spinner of the Western Indies, Akeal Hosein, will miss the opening of T20i against England in Chester-Le-Street in Durham. It may well be absent for the rest of the series of three games due to visa complications. The problem comes from recent changes to the visa regulations of the United Kingdom that affect the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, which entered into force on April 12 of this year.

According to the new rules, Trinidad and Tobago applicants must now appear in person so that their visa applications are processed. Unfortunately, Hosein participated in the Super League of Pakistan at that time and, therefore, could not be physically present to complete the necessary formalities. As a result, a visa has not yet been granted.

Another player from Trinidad and Tobago, Jyd Goolie, is in a similar position. Goolie was a late call to replace Roston Chase, who was originally part of the team for section T20 of the England tour. However, due to the same visa restrictions and time limitations, Goolie has not been able to ensure a visa.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, made it clear that the Board is not responsible for the delay. He stressed that the new regulations were out of CWI’s control and unfortunately had impacted the availability of the players.

Meanwhile, Roston Chase, who was initially scheduled to return home early to prepare for the next series against Australia, will remain with the team until the situation with respect to Hosein and Goolie is resolved or concluded the series. CWI hopes that visa problems will be ordered in time for both players to participate in the matches against England or, at least, are available for later T20i against Ireland.

More to follow …