England’s Pakistan-origin players receive visas, others to get soon for T20 World Cup

England players receive Visas [Source: AFP]

In an important move ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has stepped in to help resolve visa-related problems faced by players and officials of Pakistan origin. 

The tournament is set to be hosted in India and Sri Lanka, starting from February 7. With teams from around the world preparing to travel, visa delays had become a major concern, especially for those with Pakistani heritage.

To address this issue, the ICC took responsibility for coordinating visa formalities for 42 players and officials of Pakistani origin who are part of different teams. This step was taken to ensure that no player misses out on the tournament due to administrative delays.

England players get visa clearance for T20 World Cup

In England’s squad, three players have Pakistani roots, spin bowlers Adil Rashid and Rehan Ahmed, and fast bowler Saqib Mahmood. After days of uncertainty, it has now been confirmed that these three players have received their Indian visas. 

Notably, this has brought much-needed relief to the England camp and eased fears of last-minute disruptions.

Apart from England, players of Pakistan descent are also part of other international teams. For example, Ali Khan and Shayan Jahangir represent the United States, while Zulfiqar Saqib plays for the Netherlands. The ICC’s intervention covers both full-member nations like England and associate teams such as the USA and the Netherlands.

Other team players receive visa approvals

According to reports by news agency PTI, visa approvals have also been granted to members of the Netherlands squad. 

In addition, Canada’s team staff member Shah Saleem Zafar has received his clearance as well. These approvals are seen as a positive sign, showing that the visa process is moving forward steadily.

This progress is especially important because players of Pakistani origin often face longer and more detailed visa checks. As a result, their applications usually take more time compared to others.

ICC working closely with authorities

To speed up the process, the ICC has been in regular touch with Indian High Commissions located in different countries. By maintaining constant communication, the governing body aims to ensure that all remaining visa applications are processed smoothly and within the required time.

The ICC has also received assurances from the authorities that the pending cases will be cleared soon. Because of this, officials are confident that all teams will be fully prepared and present before the tournament begins.

Meanwhile, there is another issue affecting the tournament schedule. England’s group-stage match against Bangladesh is still uncertain, as Bangladesh has requested that their matches be moved to a neutral venue due to security concerns arising from tensions with India.

Earlier, Pakistan’s matches were already shifted to Sri Lanka. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly not in favor of making any further changes to the schedule.

Despite these challenges, preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup are moving ahead. With visa issues being resolved, the focus is now shifting back to the tournament.