Pakistan-born English cricketer faces visa hurdles that jeopardize his participation in T20I series against India

The world of cricket is full of new developments around it. EnglandPakistan native Paker, Saqib Mahmoodthe much anticipated visa issues are just a few days away T20I series against India. Scheduled to begin on January 22 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, Mahmood’s participation in this crucial tour has kept him in the balance due to administrative problems that kept him in England.

Saqib Mahmood’s flight was canceled due to visa crisis

According to the report published by The Daily Mail, Mahmoud is expected to join his teammates in the game United Arab Emirates A preparation camp where you will adapt to the conditions under the guidance of a fast bowling consultant James Anderson. However, the flight was canceled England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) He reported that his passport was staying with the Indian Embassy, ​​preventing him from traveling. This situation prevented the 27-year-old from being able to train effectively in the cold conditions of England, he could not prepare and prepare for the next matches.

ECB have yet to make an official statement regarding Mahmoud’s visa status, and it is unclear when he will be able to join the team. With just a week left for the team to travel to India, this problem poses a threat to the team’s preparations and fitness.

Also Read: BCCI announces India squad for England T20Is, Mohammed Shami returns

Design of visa issues

Unfortunately, Mahmoud’s current situation is not an isolated incident. He had faced visa-related problems during his earlier visits to India. Last year, while playing for LancashireHe could not get a visa in time, which caused him to be excluded from the tour. Similarly, in 2019, he missed out on joining. The Lions of England Group due to visa complexity. These repeated cases present a dire situation for cricketers of Pakistani heritage trying to enter India for cricket participation.

The last tour of India saw other players facing similar hurdles. Shoaib Bashir He had to return to London to clear visa issues before taking part in the Test match. in addition, Rehan Ahmed In a recent series, he faced problems with a single-entry visa that delayed his entry into India. Such incidents not only disrupt team activities but also create frustration among players and management.

Mahmoud: It is a vital asset for England.

Mahmood’s absence will be a big blow to England’s bowling attack. He played a significant role in T20I cricket, playing 18 matches and taking 18 wickets at an average of 30.61. His performance included a four-wicket haul and an economy rate of 9.33 runs. He is also a part of England’s ODI squad. ICC Champions Trophy 2025It shows the importance in the group structure.

Despite these statistics, Mahmood has not been able to match India at any level at the international level. The opportunity to play against such a formidable opponent for the first time marks a significant milestone in his career and further cements his place in the national team.

Also Read: Joe Root returns as England announce ODI squad for Champions Trophy 2025 and tour of India.