Pakistan-Born Pacer Denied Entry in India Ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

India and Sri Lanka are set to co-host the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, starting on February 7. However, ahead of a major event, a lot of controversies have already taken place. Bangladesh Cricket team have informed ICC that they won't be travelling to India amid the ongoing political tensions between the nations. However, in a major turn of events, another controversy is emerging to take place regarding a Pakistan-born USA cricketer, Ali Khan.

Ali Khan Visa Denied for T20 World Cup 2026

Ali Khan USA cricketer, has not been granted the visa to travel to India for the T20 World Cup 2026. The Pakistan-born cricketer denied entry because of his connection with Pakistan. As we all know, India has cut all the ties with Pakistan because of the nations' involvement in various terror activities, which has also affected both nations' sports relations. The news of Ali Khan not getting a visa was shared by him on his social media account, which stated, “India visa denied, but KFC for the win.”

Apart from Ali Khan, Shayan Jahangir, Ehsan Adil, and Mohammad Mohsin are the other USA players who were denied a visa for India. Ali has played 18 T20I matches and has taken 16 wickets at a strike rate of 24. He has also been a part of a renowned IPL franchise, representing the Kolkata Knight Riders. Shayan Jahangir is a star USA batter, while Ehsan Adil is a fast bowler who has also played for Pakistan. Mohammad Mohsin is a leg spinner who has taken 24 wickets in 33 matches for the USA.

USA T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule

Interestingly, the USA are placed in Group A alongside the greatest rivalry in cricket, India and Pakistan. Apart from them, the Netherlands and Namibia are also a part of the group. India and USA will be playing their first match of the T20 World Cup 2026 against each other at one of the most iconic stadiums in the world, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, which makes the match even more interesting. The USA's second match will be against Pakistan on February 10. Considering the controversy that is going on right now, it would be interesting to see if these players will be granted a VISA or not.