Blind T20 World Cup: India Thwarts Pakistan Pass, Government Cancels Cricket Tour Over Security Fears
 

In a huge blow to the international tournament, the Indian Blind Cricket Team has been given a fresh jolt ahead of the T20 World Cup, which is set to take place in Pakistan from November 23 to December 3, 2024, as the Indian government refused to give permission for the team to travel due to security concerns. The Indian team was expected to cross the Wagah border on November 20.

Despite receiving NOC from the Ministry of Sports, the team is unable to get clearance from MEA. IBCA was told that the team would not be allowed to go to Pakistan. The reason cited was the fear of the safety of the cricketers, especially as they prohibit the mainstream Indian cricket team from visiting the country as well.

Expressing his disappointment as IBCA's General Secretary, Shailendra Yadav said that he was not apprised of the decision in advance. He ventured how the government announcement came at the last minute, considering the planning behind an international event of this nature. "We have been unofficially informed that the blind team will not be permitted to visit Pakistan", he stated. We were to leave for Wagah border tomorrow but as of now, there has been no clearance from the ministry officials.

The Indian government had chosen this course in the wake of continued security issues with respect to travel to Pakistan. The government has often pitched these issues for limiting the participation of Indian teams for sporting events hosted by Pakistan. Yadav expressed an element of frustration, wondering why the decision was not communicated much earlier, specially considering the logistics involved in international travel and coordination for such an important tournament.

At the same time, the denial of permission to the Blind Cricket Team shows the complex relationship between sports and international relations where political and security issues overshadow the spirit of competition. The Exclusion of Indian Blind Cricket Team from T20 World Cup marks a setback for these players who were eagerly preparing for the event.