![Sandeep Lamichhane asks ECB for 'clear answer' after visa issues scupper his Hundred plans](https://news.internationalpk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Sandeep-Lamichhane-asks-ECB-for-clear-answer-after-visa-issues-1024x576.jpg)
Tabraiz Shamsi replaces the Nepal legspinner in the Oval Invincibles squad
In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Lamichhane said he was “extremely gutted” to miss the tournament – having previously been ruled out of the Vitality Blast at short notice because of similar reasons – and said that he had “followed all the instructions given to me by ECB officials”.
“When I applied for the Tier 5 visa, I was told that one Certificate of Sponsorship [COS] would be enough for my gig at Vitality Blast and the Hundred,” Lamichhane said. “Due to COVID-19 situation, there was a delay in my visa and Worcestershire pulled out but it was again communicated to me by officials that as long as I come into the UK before July 10, I would be okay as my COS was still active.
“I came in the UK by July 9, had no issues whatsoever at the immigration and moved into the government managed quarantine facility to complete my quarantine. On July 18, two days before my quarantine completion, I was told by ECB that may visa is not valid and I have to leave the country ASAP. I have been asking what went wrong but apparently no-one at the ECB have the correct answer. I can totally understand that things can go south at any time, however I at least deserve a clear answer on why my valid visa is not valid anymore.
“I left a lot to be part of this exciting tournament and totally pray and wish the best for all teams out there. I always got love from the lovely people of UK and I would urge ECB to look into the matter so that no-one else has to go through this ordeal. I can also feel for my people who were so looking forward to my participation in this amazing tournament. There will be better days ahead.”
The ECB has been contacted for comment but has not yet replied.
Elsewhere, Birmingham Phoenix have suffered a late withdrawal from their men’s squad, with Adam Hose missing the tournament because of a foot injury. He has been replaced by the 22-year-old Warwickshire wicketkeeper-batter Chris Benjamin, who made 60 not out off 34 balls on his T20 debut for Birmingham Bears on Sunday and provides keeping back-up to Chris Cooke. The Phoenix expect Tom Abell, who has missed the last month with a hamstring injury, to play “a big part” in the tournament, though his availability for their opening game is unconfirmed.
Matt Roller is an assistant editor at ESPNcricinfo. @mroller98