Pakistan-Origin England Spinner Rehan Ahmed Stopped at Rajkot Airport Over Visa ‘Discrepancy’

Rajkot: England cricketer Rehan Ahmed faced a minor immigration hurdle upon arrival in India for the third Test, raising concerns about his participation in the upcoming match. While the rest of the team enjoyed a 10-day break in Abu Dhabi, Ahmed’s single-entry visa caused a delay at the Hirasar airport in Rajkot.

Fortunately, local authorities granted the 19-year-old spinner a temporary two-day visa, allowing him to enter the country. However, a proper multi-entry visa remains pending, sparking questions about his availability for the crucial third Test starting on Thursday.

“Hopefully it [Ahmed’s visa issue] will be sorted in a day or so,” said teammate Ollie Pope during a press conference, expressing optimism for a swift resolution.

Ahmed was a key contributor in the first Test, claiming two wickets in England’s 28-run victory. He continued his impressive form in the second Test, taking six wickets, but India emerged victorious by 106 runs, levelling the five-match series 1-1.

In an official statement, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) acknowledged the visa discrepancy and confirmed their efforts to resolve it. “The local authorities at Rajkot Airport were supportive, enabling Rehan’s entry on a temporary visa,” the ECB stated. “The correct visa should be processed and issued in the coming days. He will continue to prepare with the rest of the squad ahead of the third Test.”