In a positive turn of events, England spinner Shoaib Bashir has successfully obtained an Indian visa, paving the way for his swift return to the squad in India, possibly by the weekend.
Initially left behind in Abu Dhabi when the England team moved to Hyderabad from their training camp, the 20-year-old, of Pakistani heritage, encountered unexpected hurdles. However, on Tuesday, it was revealed that he had returned to the UK, and as of Wednesday, his visa had been officially issued.
The England and Wales Cricket Board expressed relief, stating, “We’re glad the situation has now been resolved. Shoaib Bashir has now received his visa and is due to run to join up with the team in India this weekend.
The Indian Foreign Office clarified that the visa was issued in accordance with the established rules and regulations governing the process, emphasizing the standard procedures followed in Bashir’s case.
Despite this positive development, Somerset off-spinner Bashir will miss the first Test against India scheduled to commence on Thursday.
England Captain Statement
England captain Ben Stokes, addressing concerns about a possible team boycott in support of Bashir, stated, “There was never a chance” and clarified that any mention of a boycott was “Clapper in cheek. Stokes expressed his empathy for Bashir, acknowledging the emotional touch on the team when one of their own faces such challenges..
Shoaib Bashir, an uncapped player born in Surrey, was a surprise inclusion in the England squad for the tour, with only six first-class matches under his belt. His selection drew attention against the backdrop of enduring political tensions between India and Pakistan.
This incident echoes past instances where cricketers of Pakistani origin faced access issues to India. Australian opener Usman Khawaja experienced delays last year, and the entire Pakistan squad encountered similar challenges during the World Cup in India.
BBC Test Match Special commentator Aatif Nawaz, whose family hails from Pakistan, also faced visa delays during the World Cup and eventually did not participate in the tournament.
It’s worth noting that Bashir’s teammate, Rehan Ahmed, who shares Pakistani heritage, possesses a valid visa from the previous year, having served as a reserve for the World Cup squad.