Exclusive: World Cup 2023; PCB 'disappointed' with Zero Indian Visa for Pakistan journalists, ICC trying hard to resolve issue

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Pakistan fans and journalists have raised questions on non-availability of Visa to come to India and support their team in the ICC World Cup 2023.

The ICC World Cup has started since Thursday (Oct 5) and Pakistan have already played a match in it. The Men in Green defeated Netherlands in their first match by 81 runs to kickstart their campaign on a perfect note.

But there are concerns for ICC and Pakistan for the Visas which are not being accepted for the Pakistanis to come to India and cheer for their nation, or cover the World Cup for the journalists.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has raised the issue and are seemingly 'disappointed' as no Pakistani journlists have been able to get their Indian visas to cover their first match against Netherlands.

"PCB is disappointed to see that Pakistani journalists and fans are facing uncertainty about obtaining an Indian visa to cover Pakistan's opening game in the ICC World Cup.
Pakistani journalists and fans are expressing deep concern and it's putting us under immense pressure. We understand the significant role that journalists and passionate fans play in enhancing the spirit and atmosphere of sports events," a PCB letter was sent intending to ICC.

"We have been reminding ICC about their obligations and members' agreement on issuing visas for fans and journalists for the last three years and continue to raise concerns with all relevant authorities," the PCB letter added.

Upon contacting ICC, one of their spokeperson told MyKhel that they are trying to resolve the issues as they speak with the higher authority.

"This is an obligation of our host and they are working hard on it with our full support. Every effort is being made to get this sorted," an ICC spokeperson told MyKhel.

It is to be seen whether the Indian authority allows Pakistani journalists and fans to enter India for the upcoming matches in the World Cup. Pakistan will play Sri Lanka next on Tuesday (October 10).