UAE-based cricketer, Usman Khan, faced a five-year ban from Emirati cricket on Friday for his involvement in a Pakistan training camp, hinting at a desire to represent his birth country.
Usman, residing and playing cricket in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with aspirations to play for the Gulf nation, caught attention after delivering impressive performances in the Pakistan Super League, including consecutive centuries last month.
The 28-year-old’s actions were deemed a breach of obligations by the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), as stated in a press release by the UAE governing body.
Following a thorough investigation, it was revealed that Usman misrepresented his intentions to the ECB and utilized the opportunities provided by them to pursue opportunities elsewhere.
This decision sidelines Usman from participating in the ILT20 and Abu Dhabi T10 tournaments, both held in the UAE. Instead, he sets his sights on representing Pakistan in the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand and potentially earning a spot in the T20 World Cup to be held in the United States and the West Indies.
Usman’s case highlights the complexities surrounding player eligibility and loyalty in international cricket.
