“I didn’t want this type of situation,” Ben Stokes FRUSTRATED as Pakistan-born English cricketer faces visa issue before India Test series

Shoaib Bashir isn't the first Pakistani-origin player to have hold ups on their visa.

“I didn’t want this type of situation,” Ben Stokes FRUSTRATED as Pakistan-born English cricketer faces visa issue before India Test series

Shoaib Bashir has not traveled with his England teammates due to a visa delay (Image via ESPN)

England had announced their 16-man squad for their much anticipated India tour back on 11th December, 2023. It included 20-year old Shoaib Bashir, who received his first call-up for the English team. As the English Team departed for Hyderabad after a camp in the UAE, Bashir had to travel back home as he didn’t receive his visa. 

For any person of Pakistan-origin, the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs usually takes more time to grant visas. As per the Daily Mail, Bashir’s visa has been approved, but he had to travel back to the UK to get it stamped by the High Commission of India in London. The Telegraph has reported that the English and Wales Cricket Board missed out on proper procedures. Such visa delays have occurred to players like Usman Khawaja, Moeen Ali, and Saqib Mahmood.

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Ben Stokes didn’t hold back in the pre-match press conference on how frustrated he was at Bashir not being able to play the first Test, adding that he was devastated for the 20-year old spinner. Although his spot wasn’t confirmed for the first Test, Stokes said the pitch still gave him a chance to return. 

Especially as captain I find it particularly frustrating. We announced that squad in mid-December, and now Bash(ir) finds himself without a visa to get here. I am more frustrated for him. I didn't want this type of situation to be his first experience of what it's like to be in the England Test team. I feel for him.
Ben Stokes on Shoaib Bashir

Fans on the internet were divided over the entire situation. While many did feel bad for Bashir, some added that the procedure was required. One fan said England should boycott the series till Bashir steps in India. 

Check out their reactions: 

Rohit Sharma talks about Shoaib Bashir’s situation

Ahead of the 1st Test in Hyderabad, Rohit Sharma spoke to the press. He admitted that the Indian team isn’t unbeatable at home, and said the Indian team would need to play well to win. When asked about Shoaib Bashir’s visa delay, the Indian captain said it was sad, but added he didn’t sit in the visa office. 

Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma at the press conference (Image via ESPN)
We would've felt bad if one of our players didn’t get England's visa. I feel the same for him. But unfortunately, I don't sit in the visa office to give you more details but I hope he makes it here soon 
Rohit Sharma on Shoaib Bashir

On the eve of the first Test, England announced their playing XI. They have gone with only one frontline pacer in Mark Wood, while playing three spinners. Tom Hartley makes his debut, while Ben Foakes returns to keep the wickets. 

England playing XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (C), Ben Foakes (WK), Rehan Ahmed, Jack Leach, Tom Hartley, Mark Wood. 

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