In a stunning development that threatens to disrupt the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, reports have confirmed that the Indian government has formally rejected the visa applications of four USA cricket team players of Pakistani origin. This move has sparked immediate diplomatic and sporting tension just weeks before the tournament is set to begin.
The Core Issue Unlike the standard procedure where visas might be placed on administrative hold, sources indicate that these specific applications were outright rejected. This decision targets key members of the USA squad who were born in Pakistan but now represent the United States on the international stage.
The rejected visas belong to four pivotal players in the USA lineup:
- Ali Khan: The globe-trotting pacer originally from Attock, Pakistan.
- Ehsan Adil: A former Pakistan international from Sheikhupura.
- Shayan Jahangir: A batsman hailing from Karachi.
- Mohammad Mohsin: A spinner originally from Peshawar.
While Pakistani-origin players representing other nations, such as the UAE, have reportedly seen their visas merely “placed on hold,” the applications for the American contingent were explicitly rejected.
Sources suggest the USA Cricket Board is preparing a formal complaint to the International Cricket Council (ICC). If the visas are not issued immediately, the USA board threatens to demand that their scheduled matches be shifted out of India and relocated to Sri Lanka. This follows a precedent set for other teams; for instance, Oman’s matches are already scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka.
The timing is critical. The T20 World Cup is set to commence on February 7, 2026, with the USA scheduled to play a marquee match against India in Mumbai. The inability of key squad members to travel would severely impact the integrity of the competition.
This incident is the latest in a series of visa-related controversies involving cricket in India. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, Pakistani journalists and fans faced significant hurdles and delays in obtaining visas, with many unable to attend until international pressure was applied.
The controversy is not limited to the USA. Tensions are reportedly simmering between the BCCI and the Bangladesh Cricket Board as well, with concerns regarding the safety of the Bangladesh team and the issuance of visas for Bangladeshi fans.
The ICC and BCCI have yet to release official statements regarding the rejection. However, with the tournament opener less than a month away, pressure is mounting on the sport’s governing body to intervene and ensure fair participation for all qualified nations.