Sachin Tendulkar Urges BCCI to Recognize Cricket Association for the Blind in India

Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has come out in support of India’s Blind cricket team.

The former India batsman has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the richest cricket body in the world, to recognise the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and bring its players under the Board’s pension scheme.

Tendulkar wrote to the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrator’s (CoA) chairman Vinod Rai, requesting him to consider recognition for CABI.

“As we celebrate the fourth consecutive victory of the Indian team in the Blind World Cup, I urge you to consider recognition of Cricket Association for the Blind in India by the BCCI,” Tendulkar wrote in the letter.

Tendulkar wrote the letter a few days after the team defeated Pakistan by two wickets to lift the Blind World Cup 2018 on January 20. The Ajay Reddy-led side finished the tournament unbeaten and drew level with Pakistan’s World Cup tally after winning their second World Cup. India had also defeated Pakistan in the T20 Blind World Cup final last year to defend the title successfully.

Tendulkar further lauded the players for overcoming their hurdles and bring laurels to the nation.

“The team has overcome many hurdles and single-mindedly focussed on getting laurels for our country. Their victory is inspirational and reminds us of the limitless power of the human mind,” he wrote. “I am given to understand that the BCCI has lent its support to these players in the past and considering a similar initiative this time too.”

The most decorated batsman in the history of the game then gave some advice to the BCCI which the board can implement to help the players.

“However, I believe that it is the time that a long-standing request to be recognised by the BCCI be considered. This gesture will truly be an acknowledgement of their passion for the sport of cricket.
You may also consider bringing these champions under the BCCI pension scheme towards their long-term financial security,” he said.

Tendulkar went on to say the BCCI’s support would do a world of good for the physically challenged.

“The recognition by BCCI will go a long way in ushering a new era in Indian sports for the physically challenged where every athlete feels secure and celebrated, not struggling and eventually forgotten.
“Needless to add, it will also serve as a motivation for many others to take up sports passionately. I keenly look forward to your prompt action,” Tendulkar noted.

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