India Withdraws From T20 Blind Cricket World Cup In Pakistan; Captain Tompaki Expresses Disappointment

Captain Durga Rao Tompaki, the captain of India’s national team for the blind cricket team, expressed his disappointment on Wednesday over missing the T20 Blind Cricket World Cup in Pakistan after India withdrew due to the government not giving its cricketers permission to travel over security concerns. The national federation-the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI)-termed the decision a serious “setback”.

The Indian team was to cross the Wagah border on Wednesday for the tournament starting Saturday. “We play with passion, and we represent our country with immense pride. We have always looked forward to competing at the biggest stage, and it is disheartening to miss out on this opportunity,” Tompaki stated in a media release. He further added, “But we have been aware that the next World Cup is knocking on the door, and so our commitment towards practice and preparation remains unaltered.

Before the pullout, CABI conducted a 25-day training camp in New Delhi to pick the squad. “We have had a successful coaching camp and seen emerging talents that we believe can lead our team to greater heights,” Tompaki stated. “It is time to nurture these talents and ensure that our team is ready when the next tournament comes.”.

Though the Sports Ministry had earlier given a No Objection Certificate at no cost to the government, the Ministry of External Affairs did not clear the team’s travel. In its statement, CABI said, “While this is a significant setback for the team, CABI fully respects the government’s concerns and the decision for the same.”

The CABI, in a statement, restated their commitment to the sport while saying, “Though the timing of the next World Cup remains uncertain, the commitment to the sport and the country remains unwavering.”

This is in turn reflective of the government not letting the national cricket team travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy next year as the BCCI has already informed the ICC about India’s position.