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The cricketing world is busy with the latest developments surrounding EnglandPacemaker made in Pakistan, Sajib Mahmoodas he faced major visa issues just days before the much-anticipated conference T20I series vs India. Mahmood was scheduled to start at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on January 22, but his availability for the marquee tour is still up in the air as administrative hurdles have kept him stranded in England.
Saqib Mahmood cancels flight due to visa woes
According to the Daily Mail, Mahmoud is expected to join his team-mates United Arab Emirates Preparation camp where they will acclimatize under the guidance of fast bowling mentors james anderson. However, his flight was canceled England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Reports say his passport remains at the Indian embassy, preventing him from traveling. The situation prevented the 27-year-old from training effectively in England’s cold weather, preventing him from bowling and being fully prepared for the upcoming matches.
The ECB has yet to make an official statement on Mahmoud’s visa status and it is currently uncertain when he will be able to join the team. With just a week left before the team leaves for India, the predicament has raised concerns over his readiness and fitness for the series.
Also read: BCCI announces India squad for England T20Is, Mohammed Shami returns
Patterns of visa issues
Unfortunately, Mahmoud’s current situation is not an isolated incident. He had previously faced visa-related challenges during his trip to India. Last year, while playing for lancashirehis failure to obtain a visa in time resulted in him being excluded from the trip. Likewise, in 2019, he also missed out on joining england lions Due to visa issues, the team. The recurring issues highlight a troubling pattern of Pakistani legacy cricketers trying to enter India to play competitive cricket.
Other players faced similar hurdles during the last tour of India. Shuab Bashir He had to return to London to sort out visa issues before playing the Test match. also, Rehan Ahmed During the recent series of matches, he ran into issues with his single-entry visa, resulting in his entry into India being delayed. Such incidents not only disrupt team dynamics but also create frustration for players and management alike.
Mahmoud: England’s great asset
Mahmood’s absence will be a major blow to England’s bowling attack. He made a noticeable impact in T20I cricket, playing 18 games and taking 18 wickets at an average of 30.61. His performance included four wickets and an economy rate of 9.33 runs per over. Additionally, he is also a member of England ODI squad ICC Champions Trophy 2025showing his importance in the team structure.
Despite these statistics, Mahmood is yet to play against India at any level on the international stage. His potential debut against such a formidable opponent would mark an important milestone in his career and further cement his place in the national team.
