Virat Kohli’s Visa Delay Postpones Departure to the US for T20 World Cup
Virat Kohli’s travel to the United States for the T20 World Cup has encountered an unexpected delay. The celebrated Indian batsman did not join the initial group of players who left for the tournament on Sunday. According to media reports, Kohli’s visa application process has been postponed due to a brief planned break he requested after the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Visa Delay Postpones Kohli’s Departure
The Indian Express, citing a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source, reported that the board adjusted Kohli’s visa appointment in line with his requested break. This delay means Kohli will now depart for New York on the morning of May 30. Consequently, he is likely to miss India’s warm-up match against Bangladesh scheduled for June 1.
Previously, some media outlets had speculated about an unforeseen delay in Kohli’s paperwork, leading to further confusion regarding his travel plans.
The first batch of the Indian squad, led by captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid, has already left for the US. Batting coach Vikram Rathour, along with players Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Mohammed Siraj, and Arshdeep Singh, were seen at Mumbai airport. Additionally, traveling reserves Shubman Gill and Khaleel Ahmed were also part of the departing group.
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Team Updates and Key Absences
Notably absent from the squad was vice-captain Hardik Pandya. Reports suggest that Pandya is currently in London and will travel to the US from there. It remains uncertain whether he will join the team in time for the warm-up game against Bangladesh.
Virat Kohli concluded the IPL season as the top scorer, amassing 741 runs in 15 innings, which helped his team, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), reach the playoffs. However, RCB’s campaign ended with a loss to Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator. In contrast, Hardik Pandya experienced a disappointing season as the captain of Mumbai Indians, who finished last in the league standings with just four wins from 14 matches.
The T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the US and West Indies, is set to take place from June 2 to June 29. India’s group includes Pakistan, Ireland, the USA, and Canada. The Indian team will kick off their tournament against Ireland on June 5 in New York, followed by a highly anticipated match against Pakistan on June 9 at the same venue.
The Indian cricket fraternity will keenly watch how these delays and team dynamics play out in the lead-up to the World Cup. With key players like Kohli and Pandya facing travel uncertainties, the team’s preparation for the global tournament faces early challenges. Nonetheless, the Indian squad’s depth and experience will be crucial as they aim for a strong start in their World Cup campaign.