India Denies Visas to Pakistan Scrabble Championship Team

APP

Islamabad: The Indian High Commission has refused to issue visas to most members of Pakistan’s Scrabble team, preventing the defending champions from participating in the Asia Cup Youth Scrabble Championship and the Delhi Cup.

Despite submitting their visa applications two months in advance, the players faced delays, with some visas issued too late for participation.

According to Tariq Perez, Director of the Pakistan Scrabble Association (PSA), half of the team was denied visas without any explanation.

This included players who had previously participated and won in India in 2022. As reigning World Youth Champions and defending Asian Youth titleholders, Pakistan’s absence is seen as a significant blow.

The PSA expressed disappointment, citing India’s failure to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship. The team had traveled to Lahore in anticipation of receiving their visas but is now returning to Karachi disheartened.

The championship organizers, who had obtained the necessary clearances, were cooperative but caught off guard by the visa issues. The team now plans to focus on upcoming international competitions.