England spinner Shoaib Bashir has successfully obtained his visa for India and is set to join the touring team over the weekend, according to an announcement from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday.
The 20-year-old off-spinner, born in Britain to Pakistani parents, faced initial challenges in travelling with the squad from their training camp in Abu Dhabi to India for the five-match Test series, which commenced on Thursday.
Due to visa-related paperwork, Bashir had to return to London from Abu Dhabi to finalise the necessary documentation for entry into India. The ECB expressed relief that the situation has been resolved, stating in a release, "Shoaib Bashir has now received his visa and is due to travel to join up with the team in India this weekend. We're glad the situation has now been resolved."
Reports suggest that the UK government intervened to expedite the visa process. A government spokesperson emphasised the expectation for fair treatment of British citizens, particularly those of Pakistani heritage, in India's visa procedures. The spokesperson mentioned past instances of raising such issues with the Indian High Commission in London.
England captain Ben Stokes, addressing the media on the eve of the opening Test, expressed his disappointment at the treatment faced by the young spinner. Stokes mentioned his initial suggestion not to travel without Bashir but clarified it was more of an emotional response. He reiterated the team's full support for Bashir.
Cricketers of Pakistani descent have encountered entry issues in India before, with Usman Khawaja facing delays in joining Australia's tour last year. The Pakistan cricket team also experienced visa delays before the ODI World Cup in India.
The historical rivalry between India and Pakistan extends beyond cricket, impacting diplomatic relations and sporting ties. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma expressed empathy for Bashir, hoping for a swift resolution to enable the spinner to enjoy the tour and play cricket.
Despite Bashir's absence, England has included four spinners, including debutant Tom Hartley and Joe Root, for the opening Test. Stokes acknowledged the challenge of playing in India but emphasised the team's readiness for any pitch conditions.
India, which is missing star batsman Virat Kohli for personal reasons, is known as a formidable force in home conditions, making the Test series a tough challenge for the visiting English team.
