England fast bowler Saqib Mahmood’s participation in the upcoming white-ball tour of India is in doubt due to visa issues. With the squad set to depart on January 17, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that Mahmood’s passport is still with the Indian Embassy. As a result, he is unlikely to travel with the team unless the matter is resolved quickly.
The ongoing delay has disrupted Mahmood’s plans and affected his tour preparations. He missed England’s pace bowling camp in the UAE, led by James Anderson, where Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, and Gus Atkinson were present. The visa delay has further impacted Mahmood, as England’s freezing weather has limited his training options.
This isn’t the first time Mahmood has encountered visa issues related to India. In 2019, he was denied entry during the England Lions tour. In 2024, he missed a trip with Lancashire for the same reason. These repeated setbacks have become a growing concern for the pacer, especially with the Champions Trophy in India in 2025.
The Daily Mail reported that Mahmood’s situation has worsened as the tour approaches. The ECB has refrained from commenting on the matter, but this is not the first instance of a player with Pakistani roots facing visa challenges. Earlier in 2024, spinners Shoaib Bashir and Rehan Ahmed encountered similar problems ahead of a five-match Test series in India.
Mahmood’s absence could be a significant blow to England’s pace attack. The ECB is hoping for a quick resolution to ensure his availability for the crucial white-ball series.
Leave a Reply