The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a comprehensive support framework for the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities in Indian cricket. The initiative is aimed at strengthening infrastructure, improving exposure and providing logistical support to India’s visually impaired cricketers at domestic and international levels.
The decision comes in recognition of the remarkable achievements that India’s blind cricket teams have achieved consistently excelled on the global stage over the last decade. The BCCI said the support will be extended to both men’s and women’s national teams, which will help address key issues such as access to quality facilities, international competitions and a professional match environment.
This initiative reflects the broader vision of inclusive growth championed by Jay Shah during his tenure as BCCI Honorary Secretary and continues under his leadership role at the International Cricket Council. The BCCI said the move is in line with its long-term aim to ensure cricket remains accessible to players of all abilities.
Under this initiative, BCCI will provide assistance in the following areas:
International exposure: Providing international travel to two overseas tournaments per year for both men’s and women’s teams.
Home series support: Providing accommodation for home and visiting teams during bilateral series held in India.
Site Access: Access to BCCI affiliated stadiums and grounds for both domestic and international matches, ensuring high quality playing conditions and professional match environments.
Commenting on the initiative, BCCI President Mithun Manhas said, “Through this support framework, BCCI aims to strengthen opportunities, infrastructure and exposure for these athletes. Inclusive growth remains central to our vision for the game. We hope this support will further empower teams to confidently strive for excellence and inspire many more to join the sport. BCCI remains committed to playing its part.”
Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia said, “BCCI remains committed to supporting initiatives that increase access to the game. Extending this support to CABI is an important step towards ensuring that visually impaired cricketers have the equipment and assistance they need to compete with confidence at home and overseas. The opportunity to use BCCI-supported infrastructure and match environments will further enhance their cricket experience for the blind and help them grow professional cricket in India.”
Indian blind cricket teams have established themselves as a dominant force in world cricket. The men’s team has won several world titles, including the ODI Blind Cricket World Cups in 2014 and 2018, as well as the T20 Blind Cricket World Cups in 2012, 2017 and 2022.
The women’s team secured a historic milestone by winning the inaugural Women’s Cricket World Cup T20 in 2025, beating Nepal in the final to claim its first ever title and underlining India’s leadership in inclusive cricket.
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Issued by:
Akshay Ramesh
Published on:
February 21, 2026
