UAE-based batsman Usman Khan was banned from Emirati cricket for five years on Friday after he joined a Pakistan training camp in an apparent bid to play for the country of his birth.
After smashing back-to-back centuries in the Pakistan Super League last month, Khan—who has been residing and playing in the United Arab Emirates to represent the Gulf nation—was called up to the Pakistan team.
According to a statement from the UAE governing body, the 28-year-old “was found to have breached his obligations owed to Emirates Cricket Board.”
“Usman was found to have lied to the ECB about his decision to play for the UAE team after a thorough investigation, and he has taken advantage of the opportunities and development the ECB offered him to pursue other prospects.”
The ruling excludes Khan from the ILT20 and Abu Dhabi T10, both of which were played in the UAE. Khan was allegedly 14 months away from meeting the residence criterion to play for the UAE.
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