Several USA players set to feature in the T20 World Cup 2026 have been denied entry into India. The decision has created a major stir just months before the global event.
According to the latest update, a group of Pakistan-born cricketers from the United States have not been granted Indian visas. The players include Ali Khan, Shayan Jahangir, Ehsan Adil, and Mohammad Mohsin. All four are part of the USA’s provisional squad for the T20 World Cup 2026.
The development highlights the long-standing political tensions between India and Pakistan. These issues have often spilled over into cricket. India has avoided bilateral cricket with Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, except for a short home series in 2012–13. Since then, Pakistani players have been barred from the IPL. Pakistan-origin players from other countries have also faced visa hurdles.
Ali Khan confirms visa denial amid geopolitical tensions
Ali Khan confirmed the news through a social media post. He wrote, “India visa denied but KFC for the win.” The post was later shared by well-known cricket journalist Peter Della Penna.
Ali Khan is one of USA’s most experienced bowlers. He has previously played for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. In 18 IPL matches, he picked up 16 wickets with a strike rate of 24. He remains a key part of USA’s T20 plans.
Shayan Jahangir is an important batter for the USA. Ehsan Adil is a fast bowler who has represented Pakistan in the past. Mohammad Mohsin is a leg spinner with 24 wickets in 33 T20 matches.
The visa denial is a major blow for the USA team. Most of these players were expected to be part of the playing XI.
The USA are placed in Group A of the T20 World Cup 2026. They will face India, Pakistan, the Netherlands, and Namibia. Their campaign begins against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
The USA impressed fans in the 2024 T20 World Cup. They famously defeated Pakistan and reached the Super Eight stage.
