Reports: Pakistan journalists finally granted visas to cover India-Pakistan Wold Cup clash

In a long-anticipated breakthrough, Pakistan journalists have received their visas to cover the much-anticipated India-Pakistan World Cup match set to take place in Ahmedabad on October 14. This development marks a crucial milestone in facilitating the media coverage of the epic showdown between the cricketing giants.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been diligently working to secure visas for Pakistan journalists who had been eagerly awaiting permission to travel to India for the World Cup. The International Cricket Council (ICC) had earlier conveyed that the BCCI has been proactive in addressing this issue after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expressed its disappointment over the delays in visa clearance for Pakistani fans and media personnel.

According to a report by RevSportz, an estimated 60 Pakistan journalists are expected to make the journey to India for the World Cup. Notably, while Pakistan had garnered substantial local support for their World Cup opener against the Netherlands in Hyderabad, neither members of the media contingent nor Pakistan fans were present at the event.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been persistently reminding the ICC of their responsibilities and the members’ agreement to facilitate the issuance of visas for fans and journalists over the past three years. They have consistently voiced concerns with relevant authorities about the uncertainty faced by Pakistani journalists and fans regarding Indian visa issuance for covering Pakistan’s opening game in the ICC World Cup.

In response to this development, a PCB spokesperson expressed the disappointment of Pakistan journalists and fans and highlighted the pivotal role they play in enhancing the spirit and atmosphere of sports events. The presence of passionate fans and dedicated journalists not only adds vibrancy to the stadium but also significantly contributes to the global coverage and appreciation of the game.

Obtaining a visa for travel to India from a Pakistan passport holder is a multi-step process that requires vetting by various Indian ministries, including the Home Ministry, External Affairs Ministry, and Sports Ministry. This is due to the fact that Pakistan is classified under India’s prior reference category (PRC) list, making the visa application process more intricate and time-consuming.

With visas now granted, Pakistan journalists are set to provide extensive coverage of one of the most eagerly awaited matches in the cricketing world. Pakistan began their World Cup campaign with two wins and so have India. Both will now lock horns at Narendra Modi Stadium on October 13th.