The fourth edition of the T20 Blind Cricket World Cup begins today, November 23, 2024, in Lahore, with hosts Pakistan taking on South Africa in the opening match. The tournament, which runs until December 3, features teams from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, South Africa, Nepal, and Afghanistan, as reported by state-run Radio Pakistan.
India, initially slated to participate, withdrew from the event after the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) announced on Wednesday that the team could not secure government clearance to travel to Pakistan.
Political Tensions Hinder Participation
India’s withdrawal highlights the ongoing political tensions between the neighboring countries, which have long restricted cultural and sports exchanges. The two nations, both nuclear powers, have fought three wars—two of which were over the disputed region of Kashmir.
This decision comes just three months before the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Pakistan in February and March. Earlier this month, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that India would not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
The ICC has since relayed the BCCI’s decision to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which demanded an explanation and has repeatedly refused to agree to shifting the tournament to another country.
Hybrid Hosting Models and Regional Sports Dynamics
Pakistan previously hosted the Asia Cup last year using a hybrid hosting model, where India’s games were played in Sri Lanka. Despite the arrangement, Pakistan later traveled to India for the 2023 ICC 50-over World Cup.
The absence of India from the T20 Blind Cricket World Cup underscores the broader challenges of bilateral sports events between the two nations. However, Pakistan remains committed to hosting international cricket and supporting inclusive tournaments like the Blind Cricket World Cup.
As the tournament unfolds, it promises to showcase the spirit of resilience and inclusion in cricket, even amid regional tensions.
