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England's Pakistan-Origin Spinner Faces Visa Hurdle Ahead of India Test Series

image-lroxtyuiShoaib Bashir (X.com)

In the lead-up to the highly anticipated five-test match series between England and India starting this Thursday in Hyderabad, England's preparations have hit a snag as young spinner Shoaib Bashir faces delays in obtaining his Indian visa. Born in Surrey to parents of Pakistani heritage, the 20-year-old spinner was unable to join the squad in Hyderabad after the rest of the team flew in from their 12-day training camp in Abu Dhabi.

The complexities of the visa process, particularly for individuals with familial ties to Pakistan, have resulted in Bashir being stranded in Abu Dhabi and missing England's initial training session on Indian soil. England coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged the challenges, stating, "Things take time, don't they? We're pretty confident that we're close."

Despite the setback, McCullum expressed optimism about Bashir's eventual inclusion in the series, mentioning the seamless integration the young spinner experienced during the Abu Dhabi training camp. McCullum continued, 

"He's not alone because we have some support available for him. We're hoping the news will come through today that his visa has been approved, and then we'll get him to sink his teeth into this series."

This delay follows another setback for England, with batsman Harry Brook returning home due to a 'serious' personal issue with a family member. Additionally, Dan Lawrence, drafted into the squad following Brook's departure, is expected to join the team on Monday evening.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has escalated Bashir's visa matter with relevant authorities, including the Indian government, anticipating a positive resolution within the next 24 hours. Despite the potential two-day loss in preparation, McCullum emphasised Bashir's availability for selection in the opening Test, highlighting the spinner's promising performances on Lions duty and in the UAE.