The countdown to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, has been overshadowed by growing concerns about visa delays, which are now affecting multiple international teams. Most recently, England leg-spinner Adil Rashid and young all-rounder Rehan Ahmed have reportedly faced unexpected delays in securing Indian visas ahead of the global tournament.
Both players are currently fulfilling overseas league commitments, with Rashid featuring in South Africa’s SA20 and Rehan Ahmed plying his trade in Australia’s Big Bash League. However, the delay in visa clearances could disrupt England’s World Cup preparations, potentially forcing the duo to miss key warm-up matches as the Three Lions fine-tune their plans for the marquee event.
The visa issue first grabbed global attention after USA fast bowler Ali Khan raised concerns on social media. Born in Pakistan before migrating to the United States, Khan posted an Instagram story hinting at a visa denial, sparking speculation over whether Pakistani-origin players could face travel hurdles ahead of the tournament. His post quickly went viral, drawing attention to a broader administrative challenge.
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Ali Khan, along with Shayan Jahangir, Mohammad Mohsin, and Ehsan Adil, all of Pakistani origin, are part of USA’s provisional T20 World Cup squad. Reports suggest their visa applications remain under process and have not been rejected, with assurances that standard procedures are being followed to resolve the situation.
Are England Spin Duo Adil Rashid and Rehan Ahmed Delayed by Visa Issues for T20 WC in India? London, Jan 15 (NationPress) England spinners Adil Rashid and Rehan Ahmed are
currently experiencing delays in obtaining visas for their trip to India for… https://t.co/KenSjHvaEx pic.twitter.com/Tyuk3JDhgi— NationPress (@np_nationpress) January 15, 2026
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has since confirmed that all required documentation for Rashid and Rehan Ahmed was submitted well within the stipulated timeline. The board has also received reassurances that the visas will be issued before the tournament begins, easing immediate concerns.
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From a competitive standpoint, Team USA is set to open their T20 World Cup campaign against hosts India and has been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia, and India. England, meanwhile, find themselves in Group C and will kick off their campaign against Nepal at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 8.
With the tournament fast approaching, stakeholders will be hoping administrative delays do not overshadow cricket’s biggest T20 spectacle.
