Pakistan ties costly for US cricketers: India denies visas to 4 stars

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The 2026 T20 World Cup, to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is just days away, but a major controversy has already erupted. Amidst Bangladesh's threats of not coming to India, news has now emerged that has shocked the US cricket team (USA). It is reported that India has rejected the visas of four key players from the US team coming to play in the World Cup, further deepening the suspense over their participation in the tournament.

The star bowler expressed his pain on social media

The news of the visa denials first surfaced from Ali Khan, the star fast bowler of the US team. Ali Khan revealed in a social media post that he had been denied a visa to visit India. Sports journalist Peter Della Penya then added fuel to the fire, reporting that not only Ali Khan, but three other teammates—batsmen Shayan Jahangir, Mohammad Mohsin, and Ehsan Adil—had their visa applications rejected as well.

American jersey, but 'connection' with Pakistan?

The biggest question is why the visas of only these four players from the entire team were withheld? The reason is quite surprising. Although these players now play for the United States, all four have deep ties to Pakistan. All four are of Pakistani descent and were born in Pakistan. Ali Khan, 35, is from Pakistani Punjab, while Shayan Jahangir is from Karachi and has played for the Pakistan Under-19 team.

One player has played Test for Pakistan

Surprisingly, Ehsan Adil, who was denied a visa, was a member of the Pakistan national team before traveling to the United States. He played three Tests and five ODIs for Pakistan. It is believed that his visa has been blocked due to security concerns because of his Pakistani background. While neither the US Cricket Board nor the Indian government has issued an official statement on this matter, the incident has sparked a stir in political and sports circles ahead of the World Cup.