New Delhi: Afghanistan’s limited-overs series with Sri Lanka in the United Arab Emirates has been postponed due to the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region.
The teams were set to play in three T20Is in Sharjah and three ODIs in Dubai between March 13 and 25 but the crisis involving USA, Israel and Iran have forced a shift in plans.
“Yes, the white-ball series against Sri Lanka is postponed. There were some issues with flights, logistics, and the regional situation,” Afghanistan Cricket Board chief executive Naseeb Khan told Cricbuzz.
“We also explored a second option to stage these matches in Sri Lanka and remained in continuous contact with the Sri Lanka Cricket board. However, there were no available flights from the UAE to Sri Lanka at that time.
“Moreover, arranging production, hotels, ground bookings, and security within such a short period was quite challenging. Therefore, we ultimately decided to postpone it.”
The military conflict has affected countries throughout the Gulf, disrupted travel globally and forcing cancellation of multiple sporting events.
Sri Lanka Cricket did not immediately react on the matter.
ICC statement on flight disruptions
The International Cricket Council has clarified that throughout this period, it’s overriding priority has been the safety and welfare of everyone affected, including players travelling with spouses and young children from the T20 World Cup.
“We will not move people until we are satisfied that the travel solution in place is safe, and that commitment will not change,” ICC said in a statement.
“The ICC has been engaged continuously with airlines, charter operators, airport authorities, ground handlers, and government stakeholders across multiple jurisdictions to secure safe homeward travel for all affected groups as quickly as possible. That work remains ongoing.
“On current arrangements, the South Africa contingent will begin departing for South Africa tonight, with all members expected to have departed within the next 36 hours.
“Of the West Indies contingent, nine members are already travelling to the Caribbean, while the remaining 16 are booked on flights departing India within the next 24 hours. We will provide updates on further departures as confirmed arrangements are in place,” ICC added.