Visa Denial Sparks Concern Ahead of Major ICC Tournament
Several Pakistan-origin cricketers representing the United States have reportedly been denied Indian visas ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The tournament is scheduled to take place in India from February 7 to March 8.
Fast bowler Ali Khan brought the issue into the spotlight through social media. He shared a photo with USA batter Shayan Jahangir. His caption read, “Indian visa denied but KFC for the win.” The post quickly went viral. It highlighted the visa challenges faced by players of Pakistani origin.
According to reports, the issue extends beyond the USA squad. Players of Pakistani descent from multiple associate nations are also affected. These include Italy, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, and the United States.
Cricket boards from these countries have formally contacted the International Cricket Council. They are seeking guidance and intervention. So far, no clear assurance has reportedly been received from the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
The situation has raised serious concerns ahead of a global tournament. Participation issues could affect team combinations and tournament fairness.
Pakistan-Origin Players Key to USA Squad
The USA squad includes four players of Pakistani origin. Ali Khan is among the most experienced. The 35-year-old fast bowler was born in Pakistan. He has represented the USA in 15 One Day Internationals and 18 T20 Internationals. He has taken 49 wickets across both formats.
Shayan Jahangir is another key player facing visa issues. Born in Karachi, the 31-year-old has been a consistent performer. He has played 32 ODIs for the USA. He has scored 795 runs, including two centuries and three half-centuries.
In T20 Internationals, Jahangir has scored 371 runs in 19 matches. His strike rate stands at 134.42. He has also recorded two fifties in the shortest format.
Former Pakistan international Ehsan Adil is also part of the squad. He played three Tests and six ODIs for Pakistan earlier in his career. He is now set to make his debut for the USA at the T20 World Cup.
Another Pakistan-born player, Mohammad Mohsin, is included as well. Mohsin hails from Peshawar. He previously featured briefly for Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League.
These players form an important part of the USA team’s experience and balance.
USA’s Tough Group and World Cup Schedule
The United States will be playing their second ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Their first appearance came in 2024. That campaign was memorable. The USA stunned former champions Pakistan in a dramatic Super Over victory.
For the 2026 edition, the USA has been placed in Group A. The group includes hosts India, Pakistan, Namibia, and the Netherlands. It is considered one of the toughest groups in the tournament.
The USA is scheduled to open its campaign against India on February 7. This match is expected to draw significant global attention. They will then face Pakistan on February 10. The rivalry adds further intensity to the group.
The USA will play the Netherlands on February 13. Their final group match will be against Namibia on February 15. Visa uncertainty has now cast doubt over player availability for these fixtures.
Cricket observers warn that unresolved visa issues could disrupt tournament preparations. They also fear it may set a worrying precedent for future ICC events hosted by single countries.
The ICC is expected to play a key role in resolving the matter. Teams and fans alike are awaiting clarity.
