Pakistani-Born Players Face Visa Difficulties for T20 World Cup in India

Cricketers of Pakistani origin or those holding Pakistani passports are likely to face difficulties in obtaining Indian visas for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, sources said.

According to sources, the cricket boards of five teams taking part in the tournament have raised the issue with the International Cricket Council (ICC). However, they have not received any response from the ICC or any assurance from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Sources further said that India has not provided any clear response to the ICC regarding visa facilitation for such players.

Concerns remain over the visa process ahead of the tournament, particularly for players of Pakistani background or those travelling on Pakistani passports.

Several participating teams, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman, Italy, Canada and the United States of America (USA), have players who are either Pakistani passport holders or of Pakistani descent.

In the past, cricketers of Pakistani origin have faced difficulties in securing Indian visas. These past incidents have increased concern among associate member boards.

Officials from the affected boards believe that if players of Pakistani origin have previously faced hurdles, those travelling on Pakistani passports could face even greater challenges.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from 7 February to 8 March.

A total of 20 teams will participate in the tournament. They have been divided into five groups of four teams each, with the top two teams from each group qualifying for the Super Eight stage.

The Super Eight round will consist of two groups of four teams and will begin on 21 February in Colombo before concluding on 1 March in Kolkata.

The first semi-final will be played on 3 March, followed by the second semi-final on 5 March. The final is scheduled for 8 March and will take place in either Ahmedabad or Colombo.