India denies visa to Nepal’s blind cricket coach over Pakistani nationality

India has once again strained sports ties with Pakistan by denying a visa to Nepal’s coach just before the Blind Women’s Cricket World Cup begins on November 11 in India and Sri Lanka.

According to PBCC, India denied his visa, creating a major setback for Nepal just days before the tournament. Because Pakistan is also part of the event, the tournament is already being played in a hybrid format. Nepal still has matches scheduled in India, which means their coach requires a visa to travel. However, with India refusing entry, Nepal will now head into the competition without the experienced guidance they were counting on.

Masood Jan is considered one of the biggest names in blind cricket. He has represented Pakistan with distinction and holds the Pride of Performance award for his services to the sport. For Nepal, his involvement was seen as a major boost, especially as it would have been his first time coaching them at a World Cup. His absence is now being viewed as a loss not only for Pakistan but for the spirit of sports and inclusion that this tournament aims to promote.

Expressing disappointment, the PBCC said it was unfortunate that politics continues to affect sports, especially in an event meant to encourage talent, courage, and unity among differently-abled athletes. Despite the controversy, the Blind Women’s World Cup will take place as scheduled. Yet, the tournament’s opening now carries a sense of regret, as one of blind cricket’s most respected figures will not be part of the competition due to the decision.