Pakistan-origin US cricketers denied Indian visas ahead of T20 World Cup

Pakistan-origin United States cricketers Ali Khan and Shayan Jahangir have reportedly been denied Indian visas ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in India from February 7 to March 8.

Fast bowler Ali Khan highlighted the issue on social media by posting a photo with USA batter Shayan Jahangir. “Indian visa denied but KFC for the win,” he wrote, a caption that quickly went viral and drew attention to visa hurdles faced by players of Pakistani origin.

Fast bowler Ali Khan highlighted the issue on social media by posting a photo with USA batter Shayan Jahangir. “Indian visa denied but KFC for the win,” he wrote, a caption that quickly went viral and drew attention to visa hurdles faced by players of Pakistani origin.

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According to media reports, the problem is not limited to the USA team. Several associate nations, including Italy, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, and the United States, reportedly have players of Pakistani descent or dual nationality who are facing difficulties in securing Indian visas.

Cricket boards from these countries have formally approached the International Cricket Council (ICC) seeking clarity and guidance. However, reports say no assurance has so far been received from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The USA squad for the tournament includes four players of Pakistani origin. Ali Khan, 35, was born in Pakistan and has represented the United States in 15 ODIs and 18 T20Is, taking 49 wickets across both formats.

Karachi-born Shayan Jahangir, 31, has featured in 32 ODIs for the USA, scoring 795 runs with two centuries and three half-centuries. In T20Is, he has scored 371 runs in 19 matches at a strike rate of 134.42, including two fifties.

Former Pakistan international Ehsan Adil, who played three Tests and six ODIs for Pakistan, is set to make his USA debut at the World Cup.

Another Pakistan-born player, Mohammad Mohsin from Peshawar, who previously appeared briefly in the Pakistan Super League for Peshawar Zalmi, is also part of the squad.

The USA will be appearing in their second ICC T20 World Cup, following a memorable campaign in 2024 when they stunned 2009 champions Pakistan in a Super Over.

Placed in Group A, the USA will face hosts India, Pakistan, Namibia, and the Netherlands. They are scheduled to open their campaign against India on February 7, followed by matches against Pakistan on February 10, the Netherlands on February 1,3 and Namibia on February 15.

USA squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Monank Patel (captain), Jessy Singh (vice-captain), Ehsan Adil, Andries Gous, Shayan Jahangir, Shehan Jayasuriya, Aaron Jones, Nosthush Kenjige, Ali Khan, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Milind Kumar, Mohammad Mohsin, Sai Mukkamalla, Saurabh Netravalkar, Shubham Ranjane, Harmeet Singh, Rushil Ugarkar, and Shadley van Schalkwyk.