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The cricketing world is abuzz with the latest developments surrounding England‘s Pakistan-origin pacer, Saqib Mahmood, as he faces significant visa issues just days before the much-anticipated T20I series against India. Scheduled to commence on January 22 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, Mahmood’s participation in this crucial tour hangs in the balance due to administrative hurdles that have left him stranded in England.
Saqib Mahmood’s flight cancelation amid the visa dilemma
According to reports by The Daily Mail, Mahmood was expected to join his teammates in the UAE for a preparatory camp, where they would acclimatize to conditions under the guidance of fast bowling mentor James Anderson. However, his flight was cancelled as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) reported that his passport remains with the Indian embassy, preventing him from traveling. This situation has left the 27-year-old unable to train effectively in the freezing conditions of England, where he has been unable to bowl and prepare adequately for the upcoming matches.
The ECB has not yet released an official statement regarding Mahmood’s visa status, and it remains uncertain when he will be able to join the squad. With only a week remaining until the team’s departure for India, this predicament raises concerns about his readiness and fitness for the series.
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A pattern of visa issues
Unfortunately, Mahmood’s current situation is not an isolated incident. He has previously faced visa-related challenges during tours to India. Last year, while playing for Lancashire, he was unable to secure a visa in time, leading to his exclusion from the tour. Similarly, in 2019, he missed out on joining the England Lions squad due to visa complications. These recurring issues highlight a troubling pattern for cricketers of Pakistani heritage attempting to enter India for cricketing engagements.
The last tour of India saw other players facing similar obstacles. Shoaib Bashir had to return to London to sort out his visa issues before participating in a Test match. Additionally, Rehan Ahmed encountered problems with a single-entry visa that delayed his entry into India during a recent series. Such incidents not only disrupt team dynamics but also create frustration among players and management alike.
Mahmood: A crucial asset for England
Mahmood’s absence would be a significant blow for England’s bowling attack. He has made a notable impact in T20I cricket, having played 18 matches and taken 18 wickets at an average of 30.61. His performance includes a four-wicket haul and an economy rate of 9.33 runs per over. Furthermore, he is also part of England’s ODI squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, showcasing his importance within the team structure.
Despite these statistics, Mahmood has yet to face India at any level on the international stage. His potential debut against such a formidable opponent would mark a significant milestone in his career and further solidify his place within the national team.
