A senior United States cricket official has moved quickly to dismiss claims that India has denied visas to four Pakistani-origin American players ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, clarifying that the matter is a procedural delay rather than a rejection. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is scheduled to run from February 7 to March 8 and is already drawing global attention off the field.
The clarification came after USA fast bowler Ali Khan posted a video on social media alleging that he, along with Shayan Jahangir, Mohammad Mohsin, and Ehsan Adil, had been refused visas to travel to India for the marquee event.
However, a USA Cricket official, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained that the visa process is being coordinated by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and that the situation was inaccurately portrayed by one of the players. According to the official, the applications are still under review.
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Reports suggest that all four players were born in Pakistan but have since acquired United States citizenship. Under India’s visa regulations, individuals of Pakistani origin must follow additional documentation procedures based on their country of birth. One of the players named in the controversy later confirmed that the visa status remains “in process” and has not been denied.
Pakistani born players pushing an agenda? 🚨
– In a SM post, USA pacer Ali Khan claimed that he, Shayan Jahangir, Mohd Mohsin, and Ehsan Adil were refused visas to travel to India.
– However, a USA Cricket official clarified that the visas are delayed, not denied. (This… pic.twitter.com/y0G7e9fwsi— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) January 15, 2026
With the 2026 T20 World Cup approaching, the visa delay is expected to be closely monitored, especially as it could impact players from several associate and full-member nations. Countries potentially affected include the UAE, Oman, Nepal, Canada, England, Zimbabwe, the Netherlands, and Italy.
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Sources within the ICC have revealed that special directives have already been issued to Indian embassies and High Commissions worldwide to treat Pakistan-origin players as a special category. The governing body is confident these measures will help avoid disruptions, despite similar issues affecting players like Usman Khawaja, Rehan Ahmed, and Shoaib Basheer in previous years. The ICC has reiterated its commitment to supporting teams through the visa process to ensure a smooth tournament.
