USA Fast Bowler Ali Khan Denied Indian Visa Ahead of T20 World Cup

USA’s experienced fast bowler Ali Khan has run into visa complications ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The denial of an Indian visa has raised uncertainty over his participation in the India leg of the tournament.

Born in Attock City of Pakistan’s Punjab province, Ali Khan confirmed the development through a social media post. Sharing a photo on Instagram, he wrote, “India visa denied but KFC for the win,” publicly revealing that his visa application had been rejected.

So far, neither USA Cricket nor the International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued an official statement regarding the matter. However, several reports suggest that additional security checks related to Ali Khan’s place of birth may have caused delays or led to the visa denial. It is worth noting that players of Pakistani origin have previously faced extended processing times and additional documentation requirements for Indian visas, even when holding citizenship of another country.

The 35-year-old pacer is one of the most experienced bowlers in the USA squad. He has played 15 One-Day Internationals and 18 T20 Internationals to date, taking 33 wickets in ODIs and 16 wickets in T20Is. During the 2024 T20 World Cup, he drew attention by dismissing Rishabh Pant against India and Fakhar Zaman against Pakistan in group-stage matches.

Ali Khan has also been a regular figure in franchise cricket. He has taken 93 wickets in 99 T20 matches. Previously, he represented Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and Gulf Giants in the ILT20. At one point, he was signed by Kolkata Knight Riders as a replacement player, though he did not get an opportunity to feature in a match.

Meanwhile, the United States have been placed in Group A of the T20 World Cup 2026 alongside India, Pakistan, Namibia, and the Netherlands. According to the schedule, three of USA’s four group-stage matches are set to be played in India. Their World Cup campaign is scheduled to begin on February 7 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium against host nation India, followed by matches in Chennai.

Additionally, some reports have claimed that two other USA players—Shayan Jahangir and Ehsan Adil—may also be facing similar visa-related issues. However, no official confirmation has been made regarding this matter so far.