In a significant setback, the Indian High Commission has denied visas to most Pakistani players, barring them from the Asia Cup Youth Scrabble Championship and the Delhi Cup. The Pakistani team, current World Youth Champions and reigning Asian Youth titleholders, will now miss the opportunity to defend their title.
Pakistan Scrabble Association (PSA) Director Tariq Pervez revealed that the team had submitted visa applications well in advance, yet faced delays and denials without explanation. Some players received visas too late to attend, while others, despite previous participation in India, were rejected. “Our players were ready, and the team even traveled to Lahore with hopes of securing visas. Unfortunately, they will now return to Karachi disappointed,” Pervez said.
The PSA expressed frustration, condemning what it called India’s disregard for the spirit of sportsmanship. Adding to the disappointment, Pakistani participant Nafisa Mustafa expressed her regret in a Facebook post, wishing her fellow competitors well and calling it “unfortunate” that Pakistan couldn’t compete.
This comes shortly after Pakistan’s 16-year-old Affan Salman led his team to victory in the 19th World Youth Scrabble Championship in Sri Lanka this September, winning both the individual and team titles. The team was ranked as the number one youth scrabble team globally.
India’s recent decision not to send its cricket team to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy next February has also drawn criticism. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) proposed a hybrid model for the tournament, which many have seen as further politicization of sports.
Organizers of the scrabble championship, who had secured all necessary clearances, were taken by surprise at India’s last-minute actions. The Pakistani team will now turn its focus to other international events, hoping for a smoother experience.