- The Cricket World Cup has started, but Pakistani cricket enthusiasts are feeling disappointed due to visa-related issues
- Pakistani fans are notably absent from the stadiums in India, as Indian authorities have been reluctant to issue visas to Pakistani cricket fans and journalists
- Pakistani authorities, represented by the Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, are actively working to secure visas for Pakistani cricket fans
The long-awaited Cricket World Cup has finally begun, stirring excitement and anticipation among fans worldwide. However, Pakistani cricket enthusiasts find themselves disappointed and disheartened this time around. Cricket holds a special place in the hearts of Pakistanis, and their unwavering support for their team knows no boundaries, regardless of where the matches are held.
This year, the ICC World Cup is hosted by India, Pakistan’s neighboring country. Despite the geographical proximity, politics has cast a shadow over the tournament, leaving Pakistani fans feeling distant from the action. The disappointment stems from India’s delay in issuing visas to Pakistani players. The visas were granted a mere 48 hours before their scheduled flight, and this only occurred after the intervention of the International Cricket Council (ICC).
As the World Cup commences, the presence of Pakistani fans “green shirts,” in the stadiums is noticeably scarce. Indian authorities have been reluctant to issue visas to Pakistani cricket fans and journalists, leaving them in a state of limbo. These passionate fans are eagerly waiting for their visas to be approved so they can passionately support their team, just as fans from other nations do. The politicization of this beautiful game of cricket is a source of immense disappointment for all involved.
Nonetheless, the spirit of Pakistani cricket fans remains unbroken. The Foreign Office spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, has revealed that Pakistan is actively engaged with Indian authorities in an effort to secure visas for its cricket-loving citizens. She also emphasized that India is obligated to grant these visas, as dictated by the rules of the International Cricket Council.
Although the World Cup has already commenced, there remains a glimmer of hope in the hearts of Pakistani fans. They hold onto the belief that, despite the regrettable politicization of sports, they might still receive the visas they need to witness the cricketing extravaganza firsthand. The resilience and dedication of these fans exemplify the unifying power of cricket, transcending borders and political differences, and uniting nations in the love of the game.
