Pakistan Athletes Denied Visa by India Amid ICC Champions Trophy Participation Feud

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Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated beyond the cricket field, as the Indian High Commission has denied visas to several Pakistani athletes.

This decision has affected participants from the Pakistan Scrabble Association (PSA), who were preparing for the upcoming Asia Cup Youth Scrabble Championship and Delhi Cup.

Despite applying for visas two months in advance, many players were informed that their visa applications would not be processed. Tariq Pervez, Director of PSA, expressed his disappointment at the lack of explanation, particularly as several of the denied players had competed in India before, even securing victories.

Among those affected were Pakistan's reigning World Youth and Asian Youth champions. This disruption will likely impact the tournament, as Pakistan's absence represents a significant setback for the event's competitive integrity.

This latest development compounds the already strained sporting relations between the two countries. The situation has been further aggravated by the ongoing dispute regarding the participation of the Indian men's cricket team in the 2024 ICC Champions Trophy, which Pakistan is set to host.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed its refusal to send the ODI team to Pakistan, a move that has drawn the ire of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). In response, the PCB has been determined to host the tournament in Pakistan, while the BCCI has proposed a hybrid format, where some matches could be played in neutral venues. However, PCB reportedly has been not in favour of a hybrid model and as per the latest report this may force ICC to move the tournament to South Africa. Further drama awaits on the matter.