India’s blind cricket team has pulled out of the T20 World Cup 2024, scheduled to take place in Pakistan from November 23 to December 3. The decision follows the Ministry of External Affairs’ (MEA) refusal to grant travel clearance, according to Indian media reports.
Shailendra Yadav, General Secretary of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India, confirmed the withdrawal. He explained that while the team had secured a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Sports Ministry, final approval from the MEA was denied.
“We waited for nearly a month for government clearance,” Yadav said. “After a recent conversation with MEA officials, it became clear that permission would not be granted. We’ve decided to withdraw from the tournament as time is running out.”
Although the association has not yet received an official denial letter, Yadav stated that the verbal communication from the MEA was sufficient to cancel their participation.
This move makes India the fourth team to opt out of the tournament, alongside England, Australia, and New Zealand. Yadav expressed disappointment, noting the missed opportunity for the players who had been preparing for months.
“It’s unfortunate for the sport,” he added. “India-Pakistan matches are always highly anticipated. Our withdrawal not only denies fans a thrilling contest but also deprives our players of showcasing their skills on a global stage.”
With India out, Pakistan will gain a walkover for scheduled matches against their arch-rivals. However, Yadav emphasized the decision was beyond the association’s control.
The tournament will continue as planned, with the Pakistan Blind Cricket Council (PBCC) confirming that most teams remain committed. PBCC Chairman Syed Sultan Shah remarked, “The World Cup will proceed as scheduled. One team’s absence won’t derail our preparations.”
This development comes amid broader tensions, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently informing the ICC that India’s men’s national team would not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, citing government directives.
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