Blind T20 World Cup: ‘Politically influenced’ India denies visas to Pakistan
Pakistan team was one of the favorites to win the mega event
India refused to issue visas to the Pakistan team to participate in Blind T20 World Cup due to political influence.
As confirmed by Pakistan Blind Cricket Association (PBCA), India's foreign ministry didn't allow visas for Pakistan.
Pakistan, who is currently number-one ranked team in the world, will not be able to participate in the event.
"It is disappointing to see India once again playing politics in sports," PBCA's chairman Sultan Shah said.
"World Blind Cricket Council (WBCC) will take strict action against India. They might face ban on hosting events in the future," added Shah who is also the president of WBCC.
Two-time runners-up Pakistan was scheduled to fly for India on December 4. But, India didn't issue visas for Pakistan squad comprised of 33 members.
Be it normal cricket or some special form, ties between Pakistan and India are highly influenced by political policies. The two teams played each other only in International Cricket Council (ICC) men's events since 2012-13.
Recently, India refused to travel to Pakistan for Asia Cup 2023 due to political pressure. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s secretary and Asian Cricket Council (ACC)'s president Jay Shah's statement sparked controversy.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is waiting for an official ACC announcement before taking any action. However, PCB chairman Ramiz Raja had clearly stated that Pakistan will not go to India for ICC World Cup 2023 if they don't come to Pakistan for the Asian event next year.
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