New Delhi—Visa complications are threatening to disrupt team preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup, with cricket players of Pakistani origin from USA and England teams facing administrative delays in securing entry to India. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has launched an unprecedented diplomatic effort to resolve these challenges before the tournament begins on February 7, highlighting the complex geopolitical tensions that continue to affect international sports.
Key Facts
• The ICC is facilitating visas for 42 cricketers and officials of Pakistani origin from multiple nations, with a January 31, 2026 deadline for all visa issuances set by Indian authorities
• USA players Ali Khan, Shayan Jahangir, Mohammad Mohsin, and Ehsan Adil remain in limbo after claiming visa denials, while England's Adil Rashid and Rehan Ahmed are also facing processing delays
• Players of Pakistani origin historically attract extended scrutiny from India's Ministry of External Affairs, with similar delays previously experienced by international cricketers like Shoaib Bashir, Saqib Mahmood, and Usman Khawaja
The controversy erupted on January 13 when USA pacer Ali Khan posted on Instagram alongside teammate Shayan Jahangir, stating "India visa denied. " However, officials clarified that applications remain under review rather than formally rejected.
According to reports, the Indian Embassy has requested additional documentation from India's Ministry of External Affairs before proceeding with approvals. This follows established procedures that apply uniformly across all tournament participants, including associate nations like UAE, Canada, Oman, and Italy.
England's Rehan Ahmed currently competes in Australia's Big Bash League, while spinner Adil Rashid is based in Dubai, complicating efforts to complete in-person visa appointments required by Indian authorities. The English Cricket Board (ECB) has escalated the matter by seeking assistance from the UK government.
The ICC confirmed it is coordinating directly with Indian High Commissions across multiple continents to expedite processing. Visa interview appointments for remaining applicants from USA, UAE, Italy, and Canada have been scheduled for early next week.
Players from the Netherlands already received clearance, while Canada staff member Shah Saleem Zafar obtained approval. The coordinated effort reflects the ICC's recognition that logistical readiness depends on resolving these diplomatic complexities.
Tensions between India and Pakistan have historically created visa bottlenecks for cricketers regardless of their current nationality or team affiliation. Such administrative delays notably affected Pakistan's team travel to India for the 2023 ODI World Cup.
According to PTI, the ICC has
This commitment underscores the governing body's determination to prevent geopolitical friction from undermining the tournament's integrity.
Do You Know?
The 2024 T20 World Cup saw USA defeat Pakistan in a thrilling Super Over matchup, and this rematch on February 10, 2026 in Colombo carries significant stakes for both teams navigating these preliminary obstacles.
Key Terms
• Ministry of External Affairs (MEA): India's government department responsible for international relations and final visa approvals for sensitive applicants
• Pakistani Origin Players: International cricketers holding Pakistani nationality or heritage, who face additional security and administrative review procedures under Indian visa protocols
• Diplomatic Clearance: Government approval required beyond standard visa processing, involving multiple departments and extended review timelines for sensitive nationalities
Asia91 Original