India withdraw from T20 World Cup for Blind in Pakistan after government not providing clearance

According to the freshest developments, the Indian team will be pulling out of the T20 World Cup to be held in Pakistan for the Blind being denied permission by the Ministry of External Affairs. Despite obtaining the No Objection Certificate from the Sports Ministry, the squad was awaiting approval from the government. 

General Secretary of the Indian Blind Cricket Association, Shailendra Yadav, briefed the flow of events that went down between the governing body and the Ministry of External Affairs.

“We were waiting for the last 25 days to get permission from the government to go to Pakistan. Now, we can’t wait any longer as the tournament is about to begin. When I talked with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on the phone, then they told us that we wouldn't be getting any permission to go to Pakistan and ‘we can cancel your tournament’. They also told us that we would be getting an official letter of denial as well. However, we haven’t got any official letter yet but on the basis of our conversation with the MEA, we’ve decided not to go to Pakistan and we will not participate in the T20 World Cup for the Blind,” stated Yadav, as quoted by India Today.

Also Read: World Cup for the Blind to go ahead without India if they don't come on time: Pakistan board

It’s a bit sad for cricket in general as cricket is a game for everyone: Yadav

Furthering on the current situation, Yadav also namedropped the nations that won't be travelling to Pakistan. He regretted the scenario presented to the team and felt pity for the players.

"Along with us, England, Australia, and New Zealand are also not coming. Hence, India will become the fourth team that will not take part in this tournament. However, it’s a bit sad for cricket in general as cricket is a game for everyone. The match between India and Pakistan is watched intently by fans and both are really good sides. Now, Pakistan will get a free walkover and it’s also tragic for the players who’ve been working hard for a long time. The team had to leave tomorrow November 20 and I don’t think any miracle can happen in such a short period. Hence, we’ve decided not to take part in the tournament that is scheduled to be held in Lahore, Pakistan," added Yadav.

The Champions Trophy in 2025 is expected to be not played at all if all India refuse to do so, as per reports. However, the T20 World Cup for the Blin d, the fourth edition of the same, might go on without India featuring.