India Withdraws from T20 Blind World Cup due to Government Concerns

Mumbai, India - The Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) has officially announced that India will be withdrawing from the upcoming T20 Blind World Cup scheduled to take place in Pakistan from November 22 to December 3. The decision was made after the central government refused to grant clearance for the team to participate in the competition, citing national security concerns.

In a statement released by CABI, officials expressed regret over missing out on the opportunity to compete at the highest level but stressed the importance of prioritizing the government's guidance and commitment to developing Blind Cricket in India. Captain Durga Rao Tompaki underscored that the team is focused on nurturing new talent and preparing for future tournaments.

This move comes as a significant setback for Indian blind cricketers, who have been eagerly awaiting their chance to compete against top teams globally. The decision has also raised questions about travel restrictions between India and Pakistan in the wake of the Champions Trophy tournament scheduled for February.

The ICC Champions Trophy, currently slated for early 2024, is shrouded in uncertainty due to its unclear schedule, with the government having withheld permission from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to allow the team to participate. The latest development sets a precedent for cross-border competitions involving India's national teams.

The CABI has emphasized its commitment to promoting Blind Cricket and participating in international tournaments while adhering to security concerns raised by the government.