New Delhi: Batting great Sachin Tendulkar has
called on the BCCI 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 Committee of Administrator's (CoA)
chairman Vinod Rai, requesting him to consider recognition for
CABI, weeks after the team won the Blind World Cup 2018,
beating Pakistan by two wickets in the final on January 20.
"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.
The cricket icon was impressed with the team's fighting
spirit, citing it as an example for others to follow.
"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.
"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."
It was India's second title at the mega event as earlier
they had won the 50-over World Cup, outclassing Pakistan at
Cape Town, South Africa in December 2014.
"However, I believe that it is time that a long-standing
request to be recognised by the BCCI be considered. This
gesture will truly be an acknowledgment 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."
Rai had said after the triumph that the World Cup-winning
players will be rewarded for their performance by the BCCI.
Tendulkar said recognition for CABI could have a ripple
effect.
"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 said.
PTI
