Pakistan‑born fast bowler Ali Khan, a key player in the United States national cricket team, revealed on Instagram on January 13, 2026, that his Indian visa had been denied ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Sharing a picture of himself, he captioned it, “India visa denied but KFC for the win.” This comes as a major concern since the USA is scheduled to play three of its four Group A matches in India.
The series of matches includes a high-profile opening clash against India at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on February 7. The visa denial could pose logistical challenges for both Ali and the USA Cricket Board ahead of the tournament.
Who Is Pakistan-born USA Cricketer Ali Khan?
Ali Khan, 35, was born in Attock City, Punjab, Pakistan, before moving to the United States, where he established himself as a leading fast bowler. Over the years, he has become one of the most recognizable faces of USA cricket, representing the country in 15 ODIs and 18 T20 Internationals. Known for his pace, control, and wicket-taking ability, Ali has been pivotal in several high-profile matches and tournaments.
He was part of the USA squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he impressed by taking key wickets against major teams, including dismissals of Rishabh Pant from India and Fakhar Zaman from Pakistan. With his experience and skill, he was expected to be an integral part of the USA squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, making the visa issue particularly impactful.
Ali Khan posted on his Instagram that his visa is being denied by India. He wrote, “India visa denied but KFC for the win”.
Why Was Ali Khan’s Visa Denied?
While no official reason has been disclosed, reports suggest Ali Khan’s place of birth in Pakistan may have complicated the visa process. Visa denials for players of South Asian origin are not unprecedented, but this situation has drawn particular attention, given its timing just weeks before the World Cup.
USA Cricket officials are expected to engage with Indian authorities to try and resolve the issue quickly, ensuring that Khan can travel in time for the tournament.
USA’s 2026 T20 World Cup Schedule in India and Sri Lanka
The 2026 T20 World Cup is co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to May 8, with matches in Indian cities including Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai, and Sri Lankan venues like Colombo and Pallekele. The USA has been drawn in Group A alongside India, Pakistan, the Netherlands, and Namibia.
Their fixtures in India include:
- Feb 7: India vs USA, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
- Feb 13: USA vs Netherlands, Chennai
- Feb 15: USA vs Namibia, Chennai
The USA’s second match against Pakistan on February 10 will take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka. With the majority of matches in India, Ali Khan’s visa denial could significantly affect team preparations and bowling strategies.
Ali Khan’s Impact on USA Cricket
Ali Khan’s experience, including stints with T20 franchises like the Knight Riders, has made him a vital player in USA cricket’s rise on the global stage. His pace bowling and wicket-taking ability provide the USA with a competitive edge, especially against top-tier teams like India and Pakistan.
If unresolved, his absence could affect the USA’s performance in the critical opening matches, potentially influencing the team’s chances of progressing beyond the group stage.
