Bengaluru, Karnataka – December 3, 2024: The 26th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the World Blind Cricket Council (WBCC) was successfully held in Multan, Pakistan, with participation from 11 member countries
India, England, and New Zealand joined the meeting virtually, showcasing a collective commitment to advancing cricket for the blind across the globe.
In a significant development, Mr. Rajanish Henry from India was elected as Secretary General, and Mr. Chandrasekhar KN as Director Finance, both set to serve for the next two years.
Leadership Highlights:
- Rajanish Henry, who previously served as Vice President of WBCC, brings extensive experience to his new role. He is also the President of the Cricket Association for the Blind in Kerala and the Chairman of Women’s National Cricket in India.
- Chandrasekhar KN, a founder member of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), has previously served as Treasurer of CABI, further strengthening the leadership team with his expertise.
Key Resolutions:
- Historic Women’s T20 World Cup:
India will host the first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind in November 2025, employing a neutral venue or hybrid model. This milestone event, spearheaded by CABI and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, marks a transformative moment in the promotion of cricket for women with visual disabilities. - Men’s T20 World Cup 2027:
The next Men’s T20 World Cup will be held in 2027, with the venue to be finalized during the AGM in 2025. - Standardization of Rules:
All international tournaments for cricket for the blind will now adhere to the IBSA Sight Classification rules, ensuring uniformity and inclusivity across the sport. - Global Expansion:
CABI will lead efforts to promote cricket for the blind in the USA and UAE, facilitating the formation of Men’s and Women’s Cricket Teams in these regions.
A Visionary Step Forward:
Dr. Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar, Chairman of CABI, remarked on the significance of these resolutions:
“The decisions made at the 26th AGM of the World Blind Cricket Council mark a significant turning point for the growth and global reach of cricket for the blind. Hosting the first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup is not just a milestone but a testament to our commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. At CABI, we are proud to lead these transformative initiatives, including expanding the game to new geographies like the USA and UAE. Together, we are building a future where cricket for the blind continues to inspire and uplift lives across the world.”
These decisions underscore WBCC’s dedication to fostering inclusivity, empowering athletes with disabilities, and taking cricket for the blind to greater heights on the global stage.