Several Pakistan-origin cricketers, including players representing the United States of America cricket team, have reportedly been denied Indian visas ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to take place from Feb. 7 to March 8 in India.
Among those affected is USA fast bowler Ali Khan, 36, who was born and raised in Attock, Pakistan, before moving to the United States at the age of 19. Khan shared the development publicly on Instagram, posting a photo of himself with teammate Shayan Jahangir along with the caption: “Indian visa denied.”
The post quickly circulated among cricket fans, drawing renewed attention to visa challenges faced by players of Pakistani origin or dual nationality.
Multiple players affected
According to media reports, Ehsan Adil and Mohammad Mohsin are also among those who were denied visas. Adil, a former Pakistan international who played three Tests and six ODIs, is expected to make his USA debut at the tournament. Mohsin, born in Peshawar, previously featured briefly in the Pakistan Super League for Peshawar Zalmi.
Reports indicate that players of Pakistani origin or dual nationality from several associate nations — including Italy, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Canada, and the United States — are encountering similar difficulties.
The cricket boards of these nations have formally approached the International Cricket Council seeking guidance. As of now, there has been no official response or assurance from the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
USA squad and tournament context
The USA squad named for the tournament includes four players of Pakistani origin. Ali Khan has represented the United States in 15 ODIs and 18 T20 internationals, taking 49 wickets across formats. Karachi-born Jahangir, 31, has scored 795 runs in 32 ODIs — including two centuries — and 371 runs in 19 T20Is at a strike rate of 134.42.
The USA will be competing in their second T20 World Cup, following a standout performance in the 2024 edition, where they famously defeated 2009 champions Pakistan national cricket team via a Super Over.
Drawn into Group A, the USA are scheduled to face India on Feb. 7, followed by matches against Pakistan on Feb. 10, the Netherlands on Feb. 13, and Namibia on Feb. 15.
As the tournament approaches, uncertainty over visa approvals continues to cast a shadow over preparations for several associate teams expected to compete in India.