USA fast bowler Ali Khan has hit a major roadblock in his preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Pakistan-born cricketer revealed on Tuesday that Indian authorities have denied his visa application. This development casts serious doubt over his availability for matches scheduled in India during the tournament.
Social Media Revelation
Ali Khan broke the news to his followers through Instagram Stories. The 35-year-old athlete posted a picture of himself with a telling caption. "India visa denied but KFC for the win," he wrote, injecting some humor into the disappointing situation. The cricketer was born in Pakistan's Punjab region before moving to the United States.
Impressive Career Statistics
The right-arm fast bowler has established himself as a key player for the American national team. He has represented the USA in 15 One Day Internationals, claiming 33 wickets. In T20 Internationals, he has played 18 matches and taken 16 wickets. His overall T20 career spans 99 matches with 93 wickets to his name.
Recent Tournament Performances
Ali Khan featured prominently in the 2024 T20 World Cup for the United States. He played in the memorable group match where the USA defeated Pakistan in a thrilling Super Over finish. The bowler has also gained valuable experience in franchise cricket, representing Abu Dhabi Knight Riders for three seasons in the ILT20. Most recently, he played for Gulf Giants during the 2025-26 season.
World Cup Implications
The United States cricket team has not yet announced their official squad for the upcoming tournament. However, Ali Khan was widely expected to be a strong contender for selection. His potential absence would represent a significant blow to the American bowling attack.
Tournament Details and Schedule
The T20 World Cup 2026 will run from February 7 to May 8 across multiple venues. Five Indian cities will host matches: Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. Three venues in Sri Lanka will also stage games: Colombo's R Premadasa Stadium, Sinhalese Sports Club Stadium, and Pallekele.
The United States finds itself in Group A alongside cricket powerhouses India and Pakistan. Namibia and the Netherlands complete the group. The American team is scheduled to play three of their four group stage matches on Indian soil.
USA's Group Stage Fixtures
- The campaign begins against India at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on February 7
- They face Pakistan on February 10 at Colombo's Sinhalese Sports Club
- Matches against the Netherlands and Namibia follow on February 13 and 15
- Both these games will take place at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium
The visa denial creates immediate complications for team planning and player preparation. Cricket administrators will need to address this situation quickly as tournament dates approach. The development highlights the ongoing challenges athletes face with international travel documentation, particularly when representing countries different from their birth nations.
