Young right-arm off-spinner Shoaib Bashir has recently joined the England national team in Hyderabad during the fourth day of the opening match of a 5-match Test series against India. Unfortunately, Bashir faced delays in obtaining his Indian visa, which resulted in him missing the initial phase of the series along with his English teammates and coaching staff.

Due to visa-related issues, Bashir had to wait in Abu Dhabi for an extended period, accompanied by an official from the English contingent. Head coach Brendon McCullum assured the media that BCCI was actively collaborating with the Indian government to resolve the visa matter. Despite these assurances, the delay persisted, causing frustration for Bashir, who was unable to join the team in India and had to return to England.

Expressing disappointment, England captain Ben Stokes shared his concerns about the situation, stating, “When I first heard the news in Abu Dhabi, I did suggest that we shouldn’t fly until Bash gets his visa. But that was a bit tongue-in-cheek. I know it’s a much bigger issue than that. I’m truly saddened that Bash has had to endure this.”

Furthermore, a British government official criticized the Indian government, alleging unfair treatment of English citizens with Pakistani heritage during the visa application process. The official emphasized the expectation that India treats all British citizens fairly and highlighted previous concerns raised with the Indian High Commission in London regarding the visa experiences of individuals with Pakistani roots.

It’s important to highlight that leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed, one of the three recognized spinners in the England playing XI for the 1st Test, also hails from Pakistan. If there were any biases against Pakistan-based players, the Indian government would likely have rejected Rehan’s visa application as well.

Nevertheless, Shoaib Bashir successfully joined the team at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad on day 4. England is currently on the field, defending a total of 231, primarily built on the outstanding performance of number 3 batter Ollie Pope. Pope’s remarkable 278-ball innings yielded 196 runs, preventing England from collapsing to a total below 200 and making the task much more challenging for the Indian contingent.

Shoaib Bashir as a Potential Starter in Vishakhapatnam Amid Jack Leach’s Second Test

England attracted attention by including only one pacer, Mark Wood, in the starting XI for the 1st Test, opting for him over James Anderson. Spin duties were entrusted to Jack Leach, Rehan Ahmed, and Tom Hartley, with additional support from Joe Root as a part-time spinner.

Unfortunately, in the 4th innings, Jack Leach’s bowling has been restricted due to swelling on his thighs. His participation in the 2nd Test is now uncertain, potentially paving the way for Shoaib Bashir to make a starting appearance in Vishakhapatnam.

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