BCCI Supports Cricket Association for the Blind with New Initiative | India Cricket News

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a significant commitment to supporting the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), providing structured assistance to both the men’s and women’s teams. The initiative encompasses international exposure, logistical support for home series and access to BCCI-affiliated venues, signaling a growing recognition of cricket’s inclusivity and the achievements of visually impaired athletes.

The move comes on the heels of considerable success for both CABI teams. The men’s team has a long and distinguished history of winning world championships, establishing themselves as a dominant force in blind cricket globally. More recently, the women’s team made history in 2025 by winning the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind, a landmark achievement that brought increased attention to the sport and the talent within India’s visually impaired cricket community.

The BCCI’s support package is multi-faceted. Critically, the organization will fund international travel for two overseas tournaments annually for both the men’s and women’s squads. This will provide invaluable opportunities for competition against international opponents and contribute to the continued development of the players. The BCCI will cover accommodation costs for both home and visiting teams during bilateral series hosted in India, easing the logistical burden on CABI and ensuring a professional environment for these matches. Perhaps most significantly, CABI will gain access to BCCI-affiliated stadia and grounds for both domestic and international fixtures, providing the teams with high-quality facilities and a platform to showcase their skills.

BCCI President Mithun Manhas emphasized the pride the cricketing fraternity feels towards the accomplishments of India’s visually impaired cricketers. The achievements of India’s visually impaired cricketers are a source of immense pride for the cricketing fraternity, Manhas stated. Through this support framework, the BCCI aims to strengthen opportunities, infrastructure and exposure for these athletes. This statement underscores a shift towards a more inclusive vision for the sport, recognizing the value and potential of athletes with disabilities.

The BCCI’s commitment extends beyond simply providing resources. Manhas articulated a broader philosophy of inclusive growth as central to the organization’s vision for the game. We hope this support will further empower the teams to pursue excellence with confidence and inspire many more to take up the sport. The BCCI remains committed to playing its part in ensuring that cricket continues to be a game for all, he added. This sentiment suggests a long-term investment in blind cricket, aiming to foster participation and create a sustainable pathway for future generations of visually impaired cricketers.

The announcement represents a significant step forward for CABI, which has long advocated for greater recognition and support. The organization has worked tirelessly to develop the sport within India, providing coaching, training, and competitive opportunities for visually impaired cricketers across the country. The BCCI’s structured support will undoubtedly alleviate financial pressures and allow CABI to focus on expanding its reach and enhancing its programs.

The timing of this announcement is noteworthy. Following the success of the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind in 2025, there has been a growing demand for increased investment in the sport. The BCCI’s response demonstrates a willingness to listen to these calls and to proactively address the needs of the visually impaired cricket community. The increased exposure afforded by access to BCCI venues and international tournaments will also likely attract more sponsors and media attention, further boosting the profile of blind cricket in India.

The BCCI has stated its intention to collaborate closely with CABI in implementing these initiatives and creating even greater opportunities for visually impaired cricket in India. This partnership will be crucial to ensuring the long-term success of the program and maximizing its impact on the lives of visually impaired athletes. The details of the collaboration, including specific timelines and performance metrics, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

This initiative by the BCCI isn’t simply about providing financial assistance; it’s about acknowledging the skill, dedication, and passion of visually impaired cricketers. It’s a statement about the power of sport to transcend barriers and to create a truly inclusive environment. The impact of this support will be felt not only by the players themselves but also by the wider community, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams regardless of their physical challenges. The BCCI’s commitment sets a positive precedent for other sporting organizations to follow, demonstrating that investing in inclusivity is not only the right thing to do but also a catalyst for growth and innovation within the sport.