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T20 World Cup visa hurdle: England stars Adil Rashid, Rehan Ahmed face delay due to origin checks

Visa delays linked to additional checks for Pakistan-origin players have created uncertainty around Adil Rashid and Rehan Ahmed’s availability ahead of the T20 World Cup.

By NES Web Desk

Jan 15, 2026 14:57 IST

A new controversy has emerged ahead of the T20 World Cup. The visa application of America's Pakistan-origin cricketer Ali Khan has been delayed due to a lack of necessary information. Three other American cricketers are also on the list facing similar issues. Now the England cricket team has encountered the same problem. Two-star cricketers Adil Rashid and Rehan Ahmed had applied for visas along with others to come to India for World Cup matches. However, since both are of Pakistani origin, their applications are facing delays, it has been learned.

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However, the Indian government has stated that there is no concern about these two cricketers' applications being rejected. They have assured the England Cricket Board (ECB) regarding this matter. It was already announced that if any cricketer is of Pakistani origin, additional information or documents would be required for visa approval. This applies to cricketers from all countries. Therefore, delays are occurring in the cases of Adil Rashid and Rehan Ahmed as well. However, it has been learned that the ECB will contact the English government to resolve this matter quickly.

As a result, England's World Cup preparations have been disrupted. When Rehan and Rashid will receive their visas is still uncertain. Therefore, their participation in the limited-overs series in Sri Lanka with the rest of the team cricketers is now uncertain. England will play three ODIs and three T20 matches against Sri Lanka as preparation for the World Cup.

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Adil Rashid is currently in South Africa. He is playing in the SA20 league. On the other hand, Rehan Ahmed is playing in the Big Bash League in Australia. Therefore, they will not be travelling with the rest of the squad of cricketers. Experts believe that these two cricketers will go directly from Australia or South Africa to Sri Lanka or India to play World Cup matches.

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