New Delhi: Senior Indian speedster Mohammed Shami’s US visa got rejected due to his existing police record on charges of domestic violence and adultery, and the BCCI had to step in to his rescue, according to a BCCI source.
The Bengal speedster finally got the clearance after BCCI CEO Rahul Johri wrote a letter to the US Embassy, stating his achievements for the country and furnishing the full police report about his marital discord with estranged wife Hasin Jahan.
It is learnt that the Indian players got their visas under P1 category (granted to members of internationally recognised foreign team of athletes).
“Yes, Shami’s visa application was initially rejected by the US embassy. It was found that his police verification record was incomplete. However now it has been sorted and all the required documents have been furnished,” a BCCI source privy to the developments told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
“Once the visa application got rejected, CEO Rahul Johri wrote a letter of request, citing Shami’s achievements including participation in multiple World Cups. Also the documents were furnished,” he informed.
In early 2018, Shami and his estranged wife Jahan separated after the latter accused her husband for adultery and domestic violence. Jahan filed an FIR against Shami in Kolkata.
Their divorce case is currently sub-judice.
Shami, who picked up 14 wickets in just 4 matches in the ICC World Cup 2019, is a part of India’s ODI and Test squad for their upcoming tour in the West Indies.
