ICC World Twenty20 build-up - Hong Kong lose Jamie Atkinson and Waqas Barkat
Squad will struggle without both their wicketkeepers in the early part of their ICC World T20 preparations
A visa snag and a freak accident have robbed Hong Kong of both wicketkeepers in the build-up to their 2016 ICC World Twenty20 qualifying campaign.
Hong Kong arrived in London on Wednesday without former captain Jamie Atkinson, who is recovering from surgery after slicing a tendon in his right foot, and vice-captain Waqas Barkat, who is still waiting for a visa despite all application requests being made at the same time.
Hong Kong head coach Charlie Burke was philosophical about the loss of both players for the start of a fortnight of acclimatisation and practice matches before the 14-team qualifying tournament for the leading associate members begins on July 9.
It's not ideal not having our two keepers and former leaders for the pre-tour, but we will deal with the cards that have been dealt and focus on what we can control
"It's not ideal not having our two keepers and former leaders for the pre-tour, but we will deal with the cards that have been dealt and focus on what we can control," Burke said.
Atkinson, who stepped down as captain during the latter stages of Hong Kong's tour of Namibia last month, is expected to join the squad next week.
"Jamie had an accident at home where he dropped a bowl on the floor and it sliced his tendon. He has had surgery and will join the squad soon," Burke said.
