Islamabad, Nov 20: India has barred its blind cricket team from traveling to Pakistan for the Blind T20 World Cup 2024, sparking debates tied to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This decision, in line with India’s policy of politicizing sports, has fueled tensions between the two nations.
As per Indian media reports, the reigning champion Indian blind cricket team was denied permission by the Modi government to participate in the tournament, set to take place in Lahore and Multan from November 23 to December 3. Sailendra Yadav, general secretary of the Indian blind cricket association, confirmed that despite obtaining a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Sports Ministry, the Ministry of External Affairs refused travel clearance.
Yadav expressed disappointment, stating, “England, Australia, and New Zealand are also not participating. It’s disheartening for cricket as a sport, especially since matches between India and Pakistan are eagerly followed. Unfortunately, Pakistan will receive a walkover, and our players’ hard work goes in vain.”
The controversy extends to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the ICC earlier this month of India’s refusal to play in Pakistan.
The Blind T20 World Cup would have seen India defend its 2022 title, but the team, scheduled to leave on November 20, canceled its plans due to the lack of clearance. Yadav revealed, “We waited 25 days for approval, but the Ministry of External Affairs informed us over the phone that permission wouldn’t be granted. Though an official denial letter hasn’t arrived, we’ve decided not to participate.”
