Otis Khan has been omitted from Pakistan’s Playing XI in the football match against Cambodia for two games straight. This match is crucial for the Pakistan Football team, as this game directly links to the qualification for the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in 2026. So why was Otis Khan sidelined?
The PFF recently released their statement regarding this matter. We shall look into it.
Otis Khan sidelined: The reason
Otis Khan was born in England but is eligible to play for both India and Pakistan. His grandfather, Kanwar Jamil Mohammed Khan, was born in India but migrated to Pakistan during the 1947 partition. He made his debut against Mauritius where they lost 3-0. By then, the footballer had played six games for the national team.
This reason turned out to be a big deal because FIFA during this week brought PFF a unique matter related to Otis’ eligibility. The problem focuses on the requirement that one of his grandparents be a Pakistani native. In his case, his grandfather was Indian-born but departed to Pakistan. FIFA has not ruled him eligible or banned with certainty, and the decision is still pending.
Also Read: Can Pakistan and Constantine overcome Cambodia’s challenge?
Otis has been a vital member of the Pakistan Football team and has played for Pakistan with tremendous passion and skill. The PFF explained the current developments in this regard that led to his absence from the first game which was held on October 12.
Otis had already received approval from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) to represent Pakistan. It was believed that there would be no problems with his participation because of this.
Otis Khan sidelined: Will the footballer play again for his country?
With the footballer out of the second leg against Cambodia as well, the PFF are still in talks with FIFA. There’s still no official update regarding this matter but the country hopes for him to play again for the national side.
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