India has extended its decision to restrict sporting events with Pakistan, denying permission for its Kabaddi team to travel to Pakistan for an upcoming match. This follows India’s earlier refusal to send its cricket team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
India Blocks Kabaddi Team’s Visit to Pakistan
The Indian Kabaddi team was scheduled to play in Pakistan on November 19 at Kartarpur, with additional matches set for November 21 in Lahore and November 23 in Bahawalpur. However, India has officially blocked the team’s participation. In response, the Pakistan Kabaddi Federation has informed its counterparts in India about this development.
Pakistan Federation Regrets India’s Decision
The Pakistan Kabaddi Federation expressed disappointment over India’s decision and is now working to organize an exhibition match in Nankana, Pakistan, as an alternative to the scheduled events.
Indian Blind Cricket Team’s Participation in Doubt
India’s decision has also cast uncertainty over the participation of its blind cricket team in the upcoming T20 World Cup in Pakistan. Despite receiving the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from India’s Sports Ministry, the team is still awaiting approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to travel to Pakistan for the tournament.
Unresolved Approval for Blind T20 World Cup
The fourth edition of the Blind T20 World Cup is set to take place from November 23 to December 3 in Lahore and Multan, Pakistan. Shailendra Yadav, General Secretary of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), confirmed that the team has been waiting for government approval for over two weeks. “We need a clear answer from the government,” Yadav said.
A Longstanding Sporting Disconnect
The last time India’s blind cricket team played a bilateral series in Pakistan was in 2014. The current uncertainty reflects ongoing tensions between the two nations, which have impacted sporting exchanges.
