Sports Ministry Clears India’s Blind Cricket Team for World Cup in Pakistan
The Indian Sports Ministry has granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and the Indian blind cricket team for their participation in the upcoming Blind T20 World Cup, to be hosted by Pakistan from November 22 to December 3, 2024.
However, further clearance is awaited from the Home Affairs and External Affairs ministries.
Awaiting Approval from Home and External Affairs Ministries
The NOC, obtained by Sports Tak, specifies that “the Ministry has no objection from the sports angle for participation of the Indian Men’s Cricket Team in the 4th T20 World Cup Cricket for the Blind in Pakistan…subject to the clearances from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of External Affairs.” The Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) is expected to provide both ministries with detailed event information, including dates, venues, and team logistics.
CABI’s Call for Final Government Clearance
Expressing the urgency for a final decision, CABI General Secretary Shailender Yadav noted, “It’s been 15 days now we are waiting for clearance and we just need a yes or no from the government.” He referenced India’s prior engagements with Pakistan, highlighting that CABI last visited Pakistan for a bilateral series in 2014, while government clearance was denied in 2018. He also mentioned Pakistan’s absence in the 2023 edition when India hosted the event.
India to Defend Title in Historic Tournament
This year marks the first time Pakistan will host the Blind T20 World Cup, with teams from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, South Africa, Nepal, and Afghanistan expected to compete in cities like Lahore and Multan. India, as the defending champion, looks to secure the title once again if all approvals are granted.
