Veteran Pakistani fast-bowler Wahab Riaz had to return back home after arriving in England to take part in the inaugural edition of The Hundred starting later this month after he failed to provide documents for the validation of his Visa upon arrival in London.
Wahab got to know about the visa problem by the immigration department at the London airport as the bowler did not have a work permit that would have allowed him to take part in The Hundred.
The 36-year-old pacer was signed up by Trent Rockers as a replacement for Nathan Coulter-Nile for the inaugural edition of The Hundred to be played between July 21 and August 21 in England.
A spokesman for The Hundred told Cricbuzz on July 9, “We are aware that Wahab Riaz has had an issue with his visa and is traveling back to Pakistan to prepare the correct paperwork. Trent Rockets will arrange for a short-term replacement if required.”
Reacting to the incident, Riaz revealed that he will know next week when he can go to England again to participate in the 100-ball competition after acquiring the required and proper documents.
Wahab said on Saturday, July 10, “My work permit number has been issued but I will know by next week when I can leave again when I get my proper work permit visa.”
He signed off by saying that a misunderstanding over the visa had caused the problem for him and he was sent back from the airport to Pakistan.
(With PTI/Cricbuzz Inputs)
