India’s refusal to grant visas to the Pakistani snooker team

25 August 2024) Pakistan snooker team has missed out on the IBSF World Under-17 and Under-21 Snooker Championship in Bangalore after the Indian authorities refused to grant necessary visas to the squad. The Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA) confirmed the development while expressing deep regret at the missed opportunity. The Pakistani delegation, which included PBSA Chairman Alamgir A Sheikh, referee Naveed Kapadia, and three young players Ahsan Ramzan, M Hasnain Akhtar, and M Hamza Ilyas, were all set to attend the dignified ceremony. Despite getting clearance from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and other concerned authorities, the team could not proceed due to visa denial. A spokesperson for the Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association said, “This is a major setback not only for our team but also for the international snooker community. Our players had a strong chance of winning medals and their absence is extremely disappointing. “Who is it?” The PBSA has lodged a formal protest with the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India and the International Billiards and Snooker Federation (IBSF) criticizing the decision to withhold the travel documents of the Pakistan team. PBSA has expressed disappointment over this situation, as they were eager to represent Pakistan at the world level. The event started today in Bangalore and will continue till August 31.