India’s blind cricket team may miss Pakistan T20 World Cup amid MEA clearance delay

The Indian men’s blind cricket team faces uncertainty about its participation in the T20 World Cup in Pakistan, as it awaits clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Although the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC), further authorization is needed from the MEA for the team to travel across the border. Recent media reports suggest that the team may not receive this clearance, making it unlikely that they will participate in the tournament scheduled from November 22 to December 3.

India’s stance comes amid heightened political sensitivity and security concerns, with the government previously withholding approval for the Indian men’s cricket team to compete in Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. The ongoing situation could also influence the blind cricket team’s chances to participate in this year’s World Cup in Pakistan.

In past tournaments, the Indian men’s blind cricket team has excelled, winning three T20 World Cups, including a victory over Pakistan in the 2022 finals. Speaking on the team’s outlook, G. Kivadasannavar, chairman of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), expressed optimism about their winning streak: “Facing Pakistan again is an exciting challenge. Visually impaired cricketers deserve more opportunities, and we are determined to extend our winning streak. With three World Cup titles already under our belt, we are ready to make it four.”

The Indian team is composed of visually impaired cricketers across three categories: B1 (Totally Blind), B2 (Partially Blind with vision up to two meters), and B3 (Partially Sighted with vision up to six meters). The B1 category includes players like Ajay Kumar Reddy Illuri from Andhra Pradesh and Debaraj Behera from Odisha. In the B2 category, key players include Venkateswara Rao Dunna from Andhra Pradesh and Lokesha from Karnataka. The B3 category features Durga Rao Tompaki from Andhra Pradesh and Sunil Ramesh from Karnataka, among others. This team, which is co-organized by CABI and the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, has earned global recognition for its skill and resilience. The players and fans alike are hopeful for a chance to showcase their abilities on an international platform, even if it means navigating complex diplomatic challenges.

With less than a month to the tournament, the Indian team remains in a state of limbo as it awaits MEA's final decision. If the clearance does not come through, it will be a major setback for the players, who have been training to defend their title and bring back another trophy for India. While the MEA’s decision is yet to be confirmed, the delay raises concerns for the team’s travel logistics and participation prospects. Cricket enthusiasts and supporters of the blind cricket community are closely watching the situation, hoping for a positive outcome that will allow the team to represent India once again on the global stage.