UK expects more bonhomie with India over cricket

Cricket's biggest spectacle -- the World Cup -- would further bolster ties between India and the UK, which hosts the multi-nation tournament later this year, a top diplomat said.

The UK Visas and Immigration division is gearing up to welcome "tens of thousands of Indian" visitors expected to travel to the UK to witness the 12th edition of the World Cup from May 30July 14, it said in a statement on Tuesday.

British Deputy High Commissioner Bruce Bucknell said India will be a "central part" of making the mega cricket event a success.

"Cricket brings us together, connects countries, communities and makes us active... From now until the final ball is bowled, we will work with partners across India to make the tournament a success and further strengthen UK-India ties.

"This includes... key visa guidance to ensure those who wish to travel apply for their visa as early as possible, or use our priority services if needed," Bucknell said in the statement.

Some of the services on offer are group appointments, where travellers can apply for appointments together at the same visa application centre, on the same day, for match tickets, passes for rail and other UK attractions.

"We will ensure that whoever wins (the World Cup) in July this is a tournament which brings the UK and India closer," the diplomat added.