India Loses Hosting Rights for 2025 Blind Women’s T20 World Cup Over Refusal to Travel to Pakistan
India has been stripped of its hosting rights for the 2025 Blind Women’s T20 World Cup after its decision not to travel to Pakistan for the ongoing men’s Blind T20 World Cup. The move comes amidst India’s continued delays in visa approvals and travel permissions, a recurring issue that has disrupted international blind cricket events.
The decision was finalized during a World Blind Cricket Council (WBCC) meeting held in Multan, where India’s refusal to issue no-objection certificates (NOCs) for its team to participate in the Pakistan-hosted tournament became a focal point of contention.
Visa Issues and Strained Relations
India’s history of denying visas to Pakistan’s blind cricket team was also highlighted during the meeting. The WBCC pointed out that India had previously refused visas to Pakistan’s team for the 2022 Blind Cricket World Cup, which further strained relations.
“India’s short-sighted policies and lack of vision have consistently hindered the growth of blind cricket,” noted one official during the meeting. The WBCC declared that both Pakistan and India would no longer be permitted to host international blind cricket events until bilateral tensions are resolved.
To avoid similar disruptions in the future, the council decided that international events involving the two nations would only take place at neutral venues where issues related to visas and NOCs would not obstruct participation.
Leadership and Governance
In addition to these decisions, the WBCC unanimously retained Pakistan’s Syed Sultan Shah as its chairman, underscoring his leadership in steering blind cricket through challenging circumstances.
Pakistan’s Dominance in Blind T20 World Cup
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s blind cricket team continues to shine in the ongoing Blind T20 World Cup 2024. On Sunday, Pakistan thrashed Nepal by 10 wickets in the first semi-final held at the Multan Cricket Stadium.
Chasing a modest target of 95 runs, the Green Shirts comfortably reached their goal in just 5.3 overs without losing a wicket, showcasing their dominance in the format.
Pakistan will now face Bangladesh in the final, scheduled to be played on Tuesday at the same venue. With their impressive performance throughout the tournament, Pakistan enters the final as strong favorites.
Looking Ahead
The WBCC’s decision to revoke India’s hosting rights for the 2025 Blind Women’s T20 World Cup highlights the impact of unresolved political tensions on sports. By shifting tournaments to neutral venues, the council aims to ensure that the spirit of blind cricket remains untainted by external conflicts.
As Pakistan gears up for the final against Bangladesh, the tournament also serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of blind cricketers, who continue to break barriers and set new standards of excellence in the sport.
