Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has refuted recent claims suggesting that visas for two vital players, including Kusal Mendis, in the Sri Lankan T20 World Cup squad were declined.
CEO Ashley de Silva clarified that Mendis' visa is presently in progress and anticipates his inclusion in the team before the commencement of warm-up matches.
Contrary to reports, both Kusal Mendis and Asitha Fernando did not opt out of traveling to the United States for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, despite the team's departure.
De Silva affirmed that Kusal's visa application has not been denied, and the US embassy is actively collaborating with Sri Lanka Cricket to facilitate its approval.
"The players’ visas have not been denied. There is a procedural path Kusal is undergoing. We expect the visa within the next two days. The circulating information about visa rejections is inaccurate. The Embassy is in the process of issuance. However, they require additional documentation from Kusal, and upon submission, the visa will be granted," stated the CEO.
Additionally, the CEO confirmed that fast bowler Asitha Fernando has secured his visa for the USA trip.
"Our team's departure to the US, two weeks before the ICC support period commences on May 25, was a strategic move to acclimate them to the conditions there. Therefore, there's no delay. We are optimistic about Kusal's prompt integration into the team, allowing him to participate in both warm-up matches," De Silva added.
Sri Lanka is slated to play two warm-up fixtures preceding the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, starting May 28. Their initial warm-up encounter is against Netherlands on May 28 at Broward County Stadium in Florida. The subsequent match against Ireland is scheduled for May 31, at the same venue.
