India’s Ministry of Sports has issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the Indian Blind Cricket Team for participation in the fourth edition of the T20 Blind Cricket World Cup, scheduled to be held in Pakistan from November 23.
In a letter addressed to Shailendra Yadav, Secretary General of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), the Ministry of Sports granted permission for the team’s Pakistan tour. However, it also directed CABI to seek further clearances from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs for the visit.
The Indian team is expected to arrive in Lahore on November 21 to join the tournament, with a highly anticipated India-Pakistan match scheduled for November 25 in Lahore.
Also Read: “National Junior Hockey Team Kicks Off Training Camp for Junior Asia Cup in Karachi”
Chairman of Pakistan Blind Cricket Council, Syed Sultan Shah, welcomed India’s Ministry of Sports’ decision, considering it a positive step for sports diplomacy. He emphasized that Pakistan-India cricket matches always capture the attention of sports enthusiasts, and fans in Pakistan are particularly excited about this upcoming clash in the World Cup.
Syed Sultan Shah also highlighted that past instances of “cricket diplomacy” have significantly improved relations between the two nations. He noted that the United Nations charter advocates special provisions and opportunities for people with disabilities, especially in sports, to foster international camaraderie and inclusivity.
Expressing optimism, Shah added that he hopes for swift approval from India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Home Affairs for the Indian Blind Cricket Team’s visit to Pakistan, allowing both nations to come together for a tournament that celebrates talent and resilience.
