PAK vs AFG: ICC Assures PCB On Visa Issue For Pakistan Fans And Journalists, Final Decision With Indian Government

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is actively seeking a solution to the issue of Indian visas for fans and journalists attending the ICC World Cup 2023. In response to PCB’s concerns, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has expressed its commitment to address the issue.

The PCB reached out to the ICC several times, urging them to expedite the visa issuance process. However, the board is encountering significant challenges from the BCCI and the Indian government in obtaining travel approvals for their citizens to attend the tournament.

It’s worth mentioning that the decision regarding visas for Pakistani citizens rests with the Indian government. This ongoing situation underscores the challenges that exist within the diplomatic and sporting relationship between these two neighboring nations at the moment.

The ICC Is Following Up On Visa Issue For Pakistan People – Reports

Pakistani sports journalist Saj Sadiq shared the PCB‘s update on the Indian visa issue for Pakistani fans and journalists. Sadiq mentioned that the ICC acknowledged the issue, but the final decision rests with the Indian government, highlighting ongoing tensions.

“In replying to PCB’s concerns, the ICC assured that they are following up on the matter. However, the final decision rests with the Indian government. The ICC will keep trying to get visas for Pakistan fans and journalists,” Sadiq tweeted.

The PCB Has Lodges Another Formal Protest, Confirms Board

Following the India-Pakistan match in the ongoing tournament, the PCB has filed a formal complaint with the ICC regarding visa delays for Pakistani journalists. The PCB highlighted the absence of a visa policy for Pakistan fans during the World Cup 2023.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged another formal protest with the ICC over delays in visas for Pakistani journalists and the absence of a visa policy for Pakistan fans for the ongoing World Cup 2023,” the PCB wrote.

“The PCB has also filed a complaint regarding inappropriate conduct targeted at the Pakistan squad during the India vs Pakistan match held on 14 October 2023.”

The Babar Azam-led team began their World Cup campaign with two consecutive victories against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka. However, they couldn’t maintain the winning momentum and suffered losses against India and Australia in the next two games.

Also read: AUS vs PAK: Danish Kaneria Criticizes PCB’s Complaint Over Crowd Behavior During India-Pakistan Match