Visa Hurdles Threaten Scotland's T20 World Cup Dream; Pacer With Pakistani Heritage Affected

• Scotland faces visa challenges for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India, particularly for fast bowler Safyaan Sharif, who has Pakistani heritage.
• Sharif, born in England to Pakistani parents, moved to Scotland at age seven and has represented Scotland in 90 ODIs and 75 T20Is.
• Cricket Scotland CEO Trudy Lindblade confirmed efforts with ICC to secure visas, acknowledging the uncertainty involved.
• The team is actively submitting visa applications, with assurances from ICC regarding their support in coordination with BCCI.
• Similar visa delays were previously reported for USA cricketers of Pakistani origin, though later clarified as delays, not rejections.

Why It Matters: Scotland's T20 World Cup participation is jeopardized by visa issues for players of Pakistani heritage.