NEW DELHI: Cricket Scotland chief executive Trudy Lindblade has addressed growing concerns regarding visa delays for her players, including Pakistan-origin fast bowler Safyaan Sharif, expressing strong confidence that the squad will travel to India in time for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The Scottish team was drafted into the 20-team tournament following Bangladesh's withdrawal over security concerns, a decision made by the ICC despite its assessments indicating no credible threat.
Compressed Timelines and Logistical Hurdles
The late inclusion of Scotland has significantly compressed preparation timelines, with visa processing emerging as the most immediate logistical challenge. Scotland is scheduled to open its campaign against the West Indies in Kolkata on February 7, adding urgency to the administrative processes. Lindblade acknowledged that visas remain the biggest variable in the entire operation, stating that the uncertainty persists regardless of whether teams have three days or forty-five days to complete formalities.
Focus on Paperwork and Submissions
According to Lindblade, Cricket Scotland's immediate focus has been on completing all necessary paperwork and submissions to expedite the visa process. She emphasized that the last forty-eight hours have been dedicated entirely to ensuring that visa applications are finalized so that players can be ready to travel without further delays. The team is currently in the middle of submitting their visas, with the administration working tirelessly to facilitate their arrival in India as quickly as possible.
Extra Scrutiny for Pakistan-Origin Players
Safyaan Sharif, who was born in Huddersfield to a Pakistani father and a British-Pakistani mother before moving to Scotland at the age of seven, is among those expected to face additional scrutiny during the visa process. Applicants of Pakistani origin typically experience longer processing times, which has raised concerns within the team management. However, Lindblade remains optimistic, highlighting that the ICC has provided assurances within its capacity to support the team through these challenges.
ICC and BCCI Support Mechanisms
Lindblade clarified that the ICC can only offer assurances regarding aspects within its control, and in this regard, the organization is collaborating closely with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and local authorities on the ground. She noted that a dedicated team is working intensively to not only assist Scotland but also support the other nineteen teams participating in the tournament. The collective effort aims to ensure that all logistical hurdles are addressed promptly and efficiently.
Precautionary Measures and Reserve Players
As a precautionary step, Cricket Scotland is also applying for visas for two travelling reserves and three non-travelling reserves to mitigate any last-minute complications. Steve Snell, the head of performance, expressed optimism that the process will be completed smoothly, anticipating additional support from the BCCI whenever possible. He underscored the importance of avoiding a scenario where Scotland, having been invited to a World Cup, is unable to enter the host country, describing it as an unfavorable situation for all stakeholders involved.
Scotland's World Cup Schedule and Squad Details
Scotland is scheduled to play warm-up matches against Afghanistan and Namibia in Bengaluru on February 2 and 4, respectively, before commencing their Group B campaign. The group also includes fixtures against Italy, England, and Nepal, making it a competitive lineup for the Scottish side.
The Scotland squad for the T20 World Cup is led by captain Richie Berrington and includes players such as Tom Bruce, Matthew Cross, Bradley Currie, Oliver Davidson, Chris Greaves, Zainullah Ihsan, Michael Jones, Michael Leask, Finlay McCreath, Brandon McMullen, George Munsey, Safyaan Sharif, Mark Watt, and Bradley Wheal. The travelling reserves are Jasper Davidson and Jack Jarvis, while the non-travelling reserves comprise Mackenzie Jones, Chris McBride, and Charlie Tear.
Despite the visa-related anxieties, Cricket Scotland remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that the team arrives in India well in advance of their opening match. The collaborative efforts between Cricket Scotland, the ICC, and the BCCI are expected to pave the way for a seamless participation in the prestigious tournament.
