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Pakistan Origin England Pacer Faces Visa Issues Ahead Of India Tour: Reports



England pacer Saqib Mahmood (Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X.com)England pacer Saqib Mahmood (Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X.com)

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As per latest reports, England fast bowler Saqib Mahmood's participation in the upcoming white-ball tour of India is under threat due to ongoing visa issues. With only one week left for the squad to depart for the tour on January 17, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that Mahmood's passport still remains with the Indian Embassy, making it impossible for him to fly with the team. 

Fails To Join UAE Camp Due To Pending Visa

This delay has left the 26-year-old’s involvement in the tour uncertain. The issue has not only disrupted Mahmood’s travel plans but also impacted his preparations for the tour. While other players, including Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, and Gus Atkinson, were able to attend a pace bowling camp in the UAE under the mentorship of James Anderson, Mahmood was unable to join due to the pending visa. 

The report by Daily Mail further highlighted that the matters have only worsened as the freezing weather in England has already prevented him from effectively training. 

Mahmood Gets Visa Issues Yet Again

This is not the first time Mahmood has faced visa issues related to India. In 2019, he was denied entry during the England Lions tour, and in 2024, he missed a tour with Lancashire for similar reasons. These recurring problems have become a significant hurdle in his career, especially with the looming Champions Trophy in 2025.

While, the ECB has remained tight-lipped about the situation, this is also not the first time a player with Pakistan origin has faced visa issues. Previously, spinners Shoaib Bashir and Rehan Ahmed also faced issues getting their visas for a five-match Test series against India in early 2024.