Saqib Mahmood Faces Visa Delay Ahead of India Tour

England fast bowler Saqib Mahmood is facing a delay in securing his visa, which has resulted in him missing a training camp in Abu Dhabi ahead of the team's white-ball series against India. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is optimistic that the issue will be resolved before the team departs for Kolkata, where the first T20I is scheduled to take place on January 22. This situation highlights a recurring issue for players of Pakistani heritage, including past incidents involving other cricketers like Shoaib Bashir and Usman Khawaja. Mahmood had previously faced similar visa problems in 2019 and during a Lancashire tour to India in 2024. Despite the setback, the ECB believes Mahmood will receive the necessary clearance in time, as other players of Pakistani descent in the squad have successfully secured their visas. The upcoming tour includes five T20Is and three ODIs, marking a significant opportunity for Mahmood to contribute under coach Brendon McCullum's leadership.