NewKerala.com

BCCI Boosts Blind Cricket with Travel, Stadium Access & Global Support

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced structured support for the country's visually impaired cricketers. This includes providing international travel, accommodation, and exclusive access to BCCI-supported stadiums for both men's and women's national teams. The initiative follows advocacy by Jay Shah and discussions with CABI leadership to ensure blind cricket receives the structural backing it deserves. This partnership aims to sustain India's legacy of success in blind cricket and promote the sport globally.

Key Points: BCCI Backs Blind Cricket with Travel, Stadium Access

  • BCCI provides travel & accommodation for blind cricket teams
  • Access to BCCI stadiums for world-class facilities
  • Supports both Men's and Women's national teams
  • Aims to strengthen cricket for the blind globally
2 min read

BCCI backs global roadmap to strengthen cricket for blind

BCCI pledges support for India's blind cricket teams, providing international travel, accommodation, and access to stadiums to sustain their global success.

"To have the support of the BCCI is a moment of great pride... a true 'feather in the cap' for our players. - Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar"

Bengaluru, February 20

The Board of Control for Cricket in India will be providing more backing to the country's visually impaired cricketers as a part of global roadmap, in the form of help in travelling and accomodation at home or away from home during bilateral events/tournaments and access to the board supported stadiums which will give them access to top class playing conditions and professional standards.

Over the past decade, India's visually impaired cricketers have established an extraordinary legacy on the global stage, winning multiple Men's World Cup titles since 2012 and securing a historic inaugural Women's T20 World Cup triumph. The BCCI's formal backing now ensures that this success is not only celebrated but sustained and elevated through structured support at the highest level.

This significant milestone follows a series of constructive discussions led by Jay Shah, Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), whose continued advocacy for inclusive growth in cricket has been instrumental in shaping this collaboration. Shah engaged closely with CABI leadership, including Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar (Chairman) and Shailender Yadav (General Secretary), to ensure that blind cricket receives the structural support it rightfully deserves, as per a press release.

To further strengthen the journey of India's visually impaired cricketers, the BCCI has committed to support both the Men's and Women's National Teams, specifically focusing on:

-Provision of international travel and accommodation for two overseas tournaments annually for each team (Men & Women).

-Provision of accommodation for home and visiting teams during bilateral series in India.

Exclusive access to BCCI-supported stadiums and grounds for domestic and international fixtures, ensuring world-class playing conditions and professional standards.

This partnership helps CABI bridge the gap in support it receives through CSR grants, enabling it to more effectively promote cricket for the blind on the global stage, particularly by organising tournaments and supporting participation in away series. It will further strengthen and expand the promotion of cricket for the blind worldwide.

"We are sincerely thankful to the BCCI and to Jay Shah for their collaboration and for valuing the journey of our cricketers," said Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar.

"To have the support of the BCCI is a moment of great pride for all of us at CABI and a true 'feather in the cap' for our players. Together, we can ensure that blind cricket in India continues to grow and inspire many more," he added.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone who has followed the women's team's journey, this brings tears to my eyes. They won the inaugural World Cup against all odds. Access to proper stadiums and travel support will change the game for them. More power to CABI and the players!
R
Rohit P
Great step, but long overdue. These athletes have been bringing glory to India for over a decade. The BCCI's massive revenue should have been shared earlier. Still, better late than never. Hope this is just the beginning and not just a PR move.
S
Sarah B
This is wonderful to see. True inclusivity in sports. The provision for both men's and women's teams is particularly commendable. India is setting a strong example for the global cricketing community.
V
Vikram M
Finally! These players are an inspiration. I hope this leads to more visibility and maybe even televised matches. The skill level is incredible. Let's get the whole country cheering for them.
K
Karthik V
A proud moment for Indian cricket. This is what "sabka saath, sabka vikas" looks like in the sporting arena. The focus on professional standards at BCCI stadiums will make a huge difference in their training and performance. Well done to all involved.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50