England’s spin duo, Adil Rashid and Rehan Ahmed, have received their Indian visas, allowing them to join the national squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, starting February 7.
The development comes after concerns over delayed clearances, as the rest of the England squad had already received their travel approvals.
Both Rashid and Ahmed have Pakistani heritage, which has historically complicated visa processing for players traveling to India.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has expressed confidence that all remaining visa applications for players, support staff, and officials of Pakistani origin will be completed in time for the tournament.
The ICC has been actively coordinating with Indian High Commissions and consulates worldwide to ensure a smooth process.
According to reports, all pending visas are expected to be cleared by January 31, well ahead of the World Cup’s commencement.
Visa delays have been a recurring issue for cricketers of Pakistani descent in recent years.
Similar situations occurred during previous ICC events hosted in India, including the 2023 ODI World Cup, where the Pakistani men’s team faced brief travel delays.
Other players from countries including Canada, the Netherlands, the UAE, Italy, Bangladesh, and the USA have also been affected this season.
A total of 42 visa applications linked to players and officials of Pakistani origin are currently under processing, including Bangladesh coach Mushtaq Ahmed, a former Pakistan leg-spinner.
Rashid and Ahmed’s visa clearance allows them to participate in England’s preparations, although both are unlikely to travel with the team for warm-up matches in Sri Lanka starting January 22.
England will face three ODIs and three T20Is on the Sri Lanka tour before beginning their T20 World Cup campaign against Nepal in Mumbai on February 8.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has worked closely with the ICC, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and the Indian government to ensure smooth clearance for all players.
The rest of the England squad includes captain Harry Brook, veteran players Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, and Rashid himself, along with promising additions like pacer Josh Tongue.
The ICC continues to monitor visa applications closely, emphasizing that timely approvals are crucial for the participation of all players, staff, and officials.
With Rashid and Ahmed now cleared, England’s squad is fully prepared to compete in the T20 World Cup 2026, marking a crucial step toward a smooth and competitive tournament in India.
