Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @indianblindcricketteam
India has officially withdrawn its Blind Cricket Team from the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place in Pakistan from November 23 to December 3.
The decision follows the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) denying permission for the team to travel to Pakistan, as reported by Indian media on Tuesday.
Shailendra Yadav, General Secretary of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), confirmed the development. He explained that although India’s Ministry of Sports had granted a No-Objection Certificate (NOC), final approval from the MEA was not received. The MEA subsequently informed that travel clearance would not be granted, leading to the team’s withdrawal.
“We had been waiting for 25 days to get the government’s approval to travel to Pakistan, but with the tournament starting soon, we can no longer wait,” Yadav said. “When I contacted the Ministry of External Affairs, they informed me that we wouldn’t be getting permission to go to Pakistan and suggested we cancel our participation. They also mentioned we would receive an official denial letter, but based on our conversation, we’ve decided to withdraw.”
Yadav expressed disappointment over the decision, highlighting the team’s extensive preparations. He noted that India’s withdrawal adds to a growing list of absentees, stating, “Along with us, teams from England, Australia, and New Zealand have also decided not to participate. This makes India the fourth team not taking part.”
He also lamented the missed opportunity for a high-profile India-Pakistan match and the impact on players who had trained extensively.
“It’s unfortunate for the players who have worked hard, and now Pakistan will get a free walkover,” Yadav added, pointing out that the team’s departure was originally scheduled for November 20, leaving no time for reconsideration.
The Pakistan Blind Cricket Council (PBCC) assured that the withdrawal would not affect the tournament. PBCC chairman Syed Sultan Shah said, “All other teams are coming to Pakistan for the World Cup. If one team doesn’t show up, it won’t affect our preparations.”
This development aligns with reports that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) of its decision not to send the national men’s team to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, citing government directives.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
