Former Indian cricketer Venkatesh Prasad has slammed the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), placing the blame squarely on the board for the recent visa fiasco surrounding young spinner Shoaib Bashir. The setback led to Bashir being sent back to the UK just ahead of the highly anticipated Test series against India.
Prasad Points Fingers at ECB
Shoaib Bashir, who was set to be a crucial part of England’s squad, faced an unexpected hurdle as visa complications surfaced, forcing him to return to England. Despite submitting his visa application on December 11, 2023, Bashir’s approval was delayed, creating frustration among players and fans alike. England captain Ben Stokes expressed his disappointment, emphasizing the challenges of selecting a player unable to join the team due to visa issues.
Venkatesh Prasad, known for his outspoken views, criticized the ECB on social media, alleging that the board neglected basic procedures and assumed matters would resolve themselves. Prasad stated, “His visa needed to be stamped in the UK. The ECB sent Shoaib Bashir to the UAE, thinking it would be stamped in a third country. Not following basic procedures, assuming things, and then crying foul is an old English way. If anyone, it is the ECB at fault.”
ECB’s Race Against Time
The incident sparked backlash from England fans, with some expressing frustration over the perceived mismanagement by the ECB. On the other hand, India captain Rohit Sharma sympathized with Bashir, expressing hope that the young spinner would join the squad soon.
As the ECB faces mounting criticism, the board is now pushing to expedite Shoaib Bashir’s return to India before the second Test in Vizag, scheduled to begin on February 2. The visa debacle has added an unexpected layer of tension to the ongoing series, with fans eagerly awaiting a resolution.
In the midst of the controversy, the ECB remains under scrutiny, and all eyes are on whether they can successfully navigate the paperwork hurdles and get Bashir back in time for the crucial upcoming match.
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