India Set to Participate in Blind T20 World Cup Despite Ongoing Pakistan Tensions

New Delhi: The Indian Sports Ministry has given the green light for the Indian blind cricket team to participate in the upcoming Blind T20 World Cup in Pakistan, despite ongoing disputes between BCCI and PCB over the ICC Champions Trophy and security concerns.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), allowing the team to take part in the tournament scheduled from November 23 to December 3. The CABI is now awaiting clearance from two other ministries, Home Affairs and External Affairs.

According to sources, security concerns led to the Indian government declining permission for Rohit Sharma's team to participate in a Champions Trophy event in Pakistan. However, the blind cricket team was given the nod to proceed with their participation in the Blind T20 World Cup.

"It’s been 15 days now we are waiting for clearance and we just need a yes or no from the government," said CABI General Secretary Shailender Yadav.

The Blind T20 World Cup is set to be hosted by Pakistan for the first time, featuring teams from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, South Africa, Nepal, and Afghanistan. The tournament will see Matches take place in Lahore and Multan.

Meanwhile, tensions between BCCI and PCB have spiked after the Indian board refused to participate in the ICC Champions Trophy. Sources close to Pakistani Cricket Board stated they may pull out of the event if tensions aren't resolved soon.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is working to resolve the issue by proposing a hybrid model, which would allow Pakistan to receive full hosting fees and host majority matches.

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