Pakistani-based international cricketers face visa hurdles ahead of T20 World Cup in India
Pakistani-based international cricketers face visa hurdles ahead of T20 World Cup in India
By Nawaz Gohar ; Cricketers with Pakistani heritage or holding Pakistani passports are reportedly facing difficulties obtaining Indian visas ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, raising concerns among several participating teams.
According to sources, the boards of at least five national teams have already reached out to the International Cricket Council (ICC) seeking intervention, but neither the ICC nor the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has provided any assurances so far.
Officials fear that players with Pakistani backgrounds in teams such as UAE, Oman, Italy, Canada, and the USA may encounter bureaucratic delays or complications while trying to secure visas for the tournament.
Sources indicate that the affected boards have begun consulting with each other to address the issue and have expressed their collective concern over the potential impact on team preparations and player participation.
Despite contacting the ICC, the boards have received no guarantees, and it is understood that the Indian authorities have not provided the ICC with any written assurance regarding visa facilitation for these players.
Historically, cricketers with Pakistani origins have faced similar visa-related hurdles when touring India, highlighting a recurring challenge for multi-national teams with players of Pakistani heritage.
The uncertainty has added another layer of concern for teams planning logistics, training camps, and match schedules ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
Officials emphasize that timely intervention from the ICC and the host boards will be crucial to ensure that all eligible players can participate without hindrance, preserving the competitive integrity of the tournament.
