In a development that casts a shadow over the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup, India's handling of visa issuance for Pakistani players and officials has ignited a fresh controversy, marking a disconcerting turn in the world of cricket diplomacy, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
Despite the fervent anticipation surrounding the tournament, the cricketing realm has been marred by political overtones once again, as India's stance on visa approvals for Pakistani cricket representatives remains a contentious issue.
The delay in the issuance of visas for the Pakistani cricket team and officials has sent ripples of concern throughout the cricketing community. According to credible sources, the Indian High Commission has yet to grant visas to the national players and officials, citing the requirement for security clearance from its government as the primary cause for the holdup.
The visa bottleneck comes at a crucial juncture, with the Pakistan cricket team scheduled to depart for India on September 25, leaving minimal time for any further delays. The team's itinerary includes vital warm-up matches against New Zealand and Australia in Hyderabad before the official commencement of the World Cup.
However, the uncertainty surrounding visa approvals has raised valid concerns about the team's timely arrival and adequate preparation. The cricketing fraternity, both in Pakistan and internationally, awaits a swift resolution to the situation to ensure the seamless execution of the highly anticipated tournament.
The Indian High Commission's decision to subject the visas of Pakistani players and officials to security clearance from the Home Affairs Department in Delhi has sparked discussions about the potential impact on the World Cup's schedule and the sporting spirit it embodies.
Reporter: Hafiz Shahbaz