NEW DELHI: The Indian blind cricket team has been denied permission by the government to participate in the T20 World Cup in Pakistan, citing security concerns, as announced by the Indian Blind Cricket Association (IBCA) on Tuesday.
The team had planned to cross the Wagah border on Wednesday to participate in the tournament, which was scheduled from November 23 to December 3.
Despite obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sports ministry, the team was unable to secure clearance from the MEA for their participation.
"We have been told unofficially that the blind team will not be permitted to travel to Pakistan. We were scheduled to travel to Wagah border tomorrow. But as of now no clearance has come from the ministry officials. So, we are a bit disappointed," PTI quoted Shailendra Yadav, general secretary IBCA, as saying.
"They are saying when the mainstream cricket team is not safe how can you be safe there. Of course, we will accept the decision, but why hold the decision till the last minute, why not inform us a month or 25 days back. There is a process," Yadav further stated.
