The next big ICC event that is coming up is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, that is scheduled to be held in Pakistan. However, the furutre of the tournament now stands in turmoil as India have reportedly refused to travel to Pakistan citing security concerns. This has reigited tensions between the two countries, as the Champions Trophy 2025 turnpil has spilled into other sports and teams as well. One of the teams who might face the brunt of these tensions is the Indian men's blind cricket team.
Indian Men's Blind Cricket Team's T20 World Cup Participation In Doubt
The 4th Men's Blind T20 World Cup is set to be held in Pakistan from November 22 to December 4. India are one of the key participating teams in the event. However, they are yet to get a clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs to travel to the country for the prestigious tournament. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has issued an NOC to the Indian team to partake in the World Cup, but without any confirmation from the MEA, they will not be able to travel to Pakistan.
Hence, the Indian team's participation in the Men's Blind T20 World Cup remains in doubt.
PCB Wants Written Explanation From BCCI
According to a report by ESPN Cricinfo, the PCB has written to ICC and asked them to provide them a written confirmation from the BCCI stating that they are unable to take part in the Champions Trophy 2025. They have also asked for a written justification from the BCCI as to why they cannot send Team India for the tournament in Pakistan.
The ICC communication to the PCB came on November 8, three days before a scheduled launch event for the Champions Trophy 2025, 100 days prior to the tentative start of the tournament on February 19. However, the cloud of uncertainty regarding whether India would travel to Pakistan has postponed the event.