India refuses visa to Faisalabad Wolves for T20 tournament

India has refused visa to Pakistani team, Faisalabad Wolves, to participate in Champions League Twenty20 tournament scheduled to begin from September 17 against the backdrop of current tensions between the two countries. Indian officials cited security concerns along with the recent tension along the Line of Control (LOC), as the main reasons for denying the visas, Sources say that the Indian government succumbed to the pressure of domestic extremist groups who wanted New Delhi to refuse visa to Pakistani team.”As a matter of precaution and caution in terms of safety and security, the government did not give a green signal for the cricket team’s visit,” Indian media quoted a government official. The Faisalabad team, led by national team skipper Misbah-ul-Haq, was invited to play in the qualifying rounds of the Champions League T20 in India, starting on September 17. The Faisalabad team’s participation in the CLT20 was confirmed until the LoC issues arose, leading to tensions between the two countries. Last year, the BCCI had invited Pakistan to send its domestic T20 champions — Sialkot Stallions — for the Champions League which was held in South Africa. The Sialkot Stallions, however, failed to qualify for the main round.