ECB in the Dock: Prasad Blames English "Crying Foul" for Bashir Visa Fiasco

The upcoming India-England cricket series has been overshadowed by a bitter controversy surrounding the visa delay for Pakistan-origin spinner Shoaib Bashir. Former Indian fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad has waded into the fray, placing the blame squarely on the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for their "amateurish" handling of the situation and accusing them of resorting to an "old English way" of crying foul after failing to follow basic procedures.

Bashir's Blocked Journey:

Bashir, a 20-year-old rising star playing for Somerset in the English county championship, was called up to England's Test squad for the series in India. However, his journey to India was abruptly halted due to a delay in processing his visa. The ECB, instead of applying for his visa in the UK, sent him to the team's training camp in Abu Dhabi, mistakenly believing it could be stamped there. This blunder resulted in Bashir's return to England, leaving the team and captain Ben Stokes frustrated and confused.

Prasad's Sharp Critique:

Prasad, known for his forthrightness, didn't mince words on X (formerly Twitter). He called the ECB's actions "amateurish" and "unprofessional," stating that their failure to follow basic procedures was the sole reason for the visa delay. He further added, "If anyone, it is the ECB at fault. Not following basic procedures, assuming things and then crying foul is an old English way."

Beyond a Visa Issue:

The Bashir saga has gone beyond a mere visa issue. It has sparked questions about the ECB's competence, its understanding of visa requirements in India, and the potential for racial undertones in the delay, considering Bashir's Pakistani heritage. While the ECB has denied any discriminatory motives, the episode has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the upcoming series.

Prasad's Powerful Message:

Prasad's intervention is significant in a few ways. Firstly, it highlights the power of social media in holding governing bodies accountable. Secondly, his criticism carries weight due to his own cricketing experience and stature in the Indian cricketing fraternity. Thirdly, his mention of an "old English way" of crying foul resonates with a broader sentiment of perceived British arrogance and tendency to blame others when facing difficulties.

Looking Ahead:

The Bashir visa issue has undoubtedly cast a pall over the India-England series. While the visa has been granted now, the damage to the pre-series bonhomie has been done. The ECB needs to address the concerns raised by Prasad and others to ensure that such "amateurish" mistakes are not repeated and that the focus remains on the cricket itself. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder of the importance of professionalism, clear communication, and mutual respect, both on and off the field.