Blind T20 WC begins in Lahore tomorrow

Pak to face financial loss due to Ind's absence: Sultan Shah

LAHORE:

The Blind T20 Cricket World Cup's grand opening ceremony will take place on Saturday in Lahore, with six teams participating including Afghanistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

Teams from Nepal and Bangladesh are expected to arrive in Pakistan by tonight.

Pakistan Blind Cricket Council Chairman Syed Sultan Shah has revealed that the Indian blind cricket team's decision not to participate in the Blind T20 World Cup in Pakistan will result in a financial loss of approximately one crore rupees.

Speaking on Express News, he emphasized that despite India's absence, the tournament will proceed as scheduled in Pakistan.

Sultan Shah criticized India for its consistent refusal to allow participation in international blind cricket events. He highlighted that in 2022, India denied visas to the Pakistani blind cricket team, barring them from competing, and has now refused to send its team to Pakistan. "How long will this continue?" he questioned, adding that the issue would be raised at the upcoming World Blind Cricket Council meeting.

He further urged the council to consider relocating next year's Women's Blind World Cup, currently scheduled to be held in India, to another country as a response to India's actions. He also stressed that sports should not be entangled with politics, as such practices harm all nations. Referring to the United Nations charter, he reminded that special individuals must be given equal opportunities and special consideration.

Meanwhile, the personalities, who have played a pivotal role in the promotion of blind cricket in Pakistan, will be honored with 'Lifetime Achievement Awards' during the WC opening ceremony.