The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should have pressed for easy issuance of visas for fans before confirming its tour of India, according to former International Cricket Council (ICC) president Ehsan Mani.
Despite repeated requests by the PCB of a relaxation of the visa policy, the Indian home ministry, citing security apprehensions, refused to budge from its stance. It even made it mandatory for applicants to name a local sponsor in order for the visa to be issued.
“Ensuring a relaxation in the visa policy should have been cleared in advance,” Mani told The Express Tribune. “The PCB should’ve taken a surety before accepting India’s invitation. Now the fans look set to face difficulties. The PCB was very reactive and agreed all terms and now India is not accommodating Pakistan. The Indian board has its financial interests and will earn millions while our board will get nothing.”
Former greats echo Mani’s views
Meanwhile, former Test cricketers have rued the policy of getting local sponsor to obtain an Indian visa for the series.
Former captain Inzamamul Haq said some other way could have been found to ensure the fans will return after the series.
“Visas can be restricted to venues only,” Inzamam said in an interview. “Not every cricket fan can get a local sponsor and many enthusiasts will be deprived of this highly-anticipated series.”
Another former captain Moin Khan termed the policy as ‘disappointing’.
“The revival of cricket ties is a positive sign but there is a need to relax rules for the fans,” said Moin.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 14th, 2012.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ