Blow for MCC as Sangakkara pulls out of Emirates Airline T20

Denzil Pinto 09:37 14/03/2016
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  • Kumar Sangakarra.

    The 38-year-old was due to line up in this Friday’s one-day competition at The Sevens Ground having been named alongside skipper Ian Bell in the 12-man squad.

    But the wicketkeeper-batsman, who scored more than 28,000 international runs, will now undergo surgery this week and hopes to be fit for Surrey ahead of the new English domestic season in April.

    “Kumar has injured his ankle and needs to sort it out before the season. He is having surgery next week,” said his agent Charlie Austin.

    “This is very disappointing for him and his UAE fans, so he is planning on taking part in next year’s Emirates T20 playing for the MCC in Dubai again.”

    Despite Sangakkara’s withdrawal, the MCC can call on England international and five-time Ashes winner Bell, Samit Patel and Graham Onions in their semi-final against defending champions Yorkshire.

    With the UAE and Lancashire also competing, Sport Arabia’s managing director Matthew Jackson, insists there’s plenty to look forward to with tickets still available.

    “It’s a shame that Kumar will not be attending the Emirates Airline Twenty20 as he is a world-class player. However, cricket fans and families can still look forward to a first-class day out this Friday, watching top teams with over 15 international cricket stars taking part such as Bell, Patel, Onions and Gary Ballance.

    “The ticket sales have been going very well and within the next 24 hours, the brunch tickets look set to be sold out.”

    He added: “The Sevens Ground is the perfect venue for cricket fans to get close to the action. It’s a true family event where children and adults can enjoy the fun, get close to the stars at autograph signing sessions and watch some of the best players in the world.

    “It will be fascinating to see whether the UAE can triumph over their English opposition.

    “This is a real chance for youngsters in the UAE to come along and see their heroes up close and hopefully they’ll be inspired to be the cricket stars of the future.”

    General entry costs Dh35, while it’s free for those under the age of 12. Premium brunch tickets are also available, varying between Dh95 and Dh395. Tickets can be purchased at www.emiratest20.com.

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