Pakistan snooker team barred from World Championship after host India denies visas

The World Under-17 and Under-21 Snooker Championship is scheduled from August 24 to 31 in Bangalore.

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Pakistan’s snooker team has been prevented participating in the upcoming World Under-17 and Under-21 Snooker Championships being held in India's Bangalore state after New Delhi refused to issue visas for the Pakistani cueists.

The championship is scheduled from August 24 to 31.

The team, consisting of cueists Ahsan Ramzan, Hamza Ilyas, and Husnain Akhtar, along with Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association Chairman Alamgir Sheikh and referee Naveed Kapadia, had submitted their visa applications in preparation for the event.

Despite obtaining all necessary NOCs from the Pakistan Sports Board and relevant ministries, the visa requests were rejected.

Chairman Alamgir Sheikh expressed his disappointment over the denial, stating that by refusing the visas, India has deprived Pakistan of potential medals.

He further mentioned that a strong protest has been lodged with the International World Snooker Association and the Indian organisers regarding the issue.

This isn't the first time that strained relations between the two countries have hindered cultural exchange through sports.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is still yet to decide on sending the Indian cricket team to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, according to Secretary Jay Shah.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) awarded hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy to Pakistan, marking a significant event for the country’s cricket calendar. The tournament will feature eight teams, with their spots determined by performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup held in India.

India has been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand, while Group B includes Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan.

When questioned about India’s participation in Pakistan, Shah stated, "No stand as of now. We will cross the bridge when it comes," as reported by the Times of India.

India last toured Pakistan during the 2008 Asia Cup, while Pakistan’s most recent visit to India was for a bilateral series in 2012-13. The two cricketing giants have avoided bilateral series due to strained relations.

The 2025 edition marks the ninth instalment of the Champions Trophy. The last tournament, held in 2017, saw Pakistan claim their first title by defeating India in the final.