Govt Not Giving Us Recognition is Sad: Blind Cricket Assoc. Pres

Panaji (Goa) [India], Oct 8 (ANI): President of Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) Mahantessh GK has said that the visually-impaired cricketers not getting recognition from the Indian government is a "sad part" and that the players are very disappointed over the issue.

The comment came during the inaugural ceremony of triangular cricket series, featuring India, Sri Lanka and England, which will be held in Goa.

Mahantessh, however, added that government has been supportive when it comes to giving grants and cash prizes to the cricketers.

Speaking to ANI, Mahantessh said, "The Government of India and the Ministry of Sports have supported us. They have been giving us grants and cash prizes whenever guys win the World Cup. But what is not happening is they are not recognizing us. This is a sad part."

"Our players are very disappointed because other sports people get facilities, awards, cash etc. But, we run from pillar to post every time. I request the Indian government to give us recognition so that our cricket also gets similar facilities as other sports people do," he added.

Reflecting on the importance of the triangular series for India, the president stated that it would help the selectors to pick the players for the upcoming World Cup. The series also holds significance as we are looking to start a cricket league and we need foreign talent for that, he continued.

"We are picking the Indian team for 2010 and 2022 World Cup. We have started selecting the talent. We are thinking of launching a cricket league soon. So, we need more talent from India and other countries also," he said.

Goa is gearing up to witness the blind cricket triangular series from Monday at the Goa Cricket Association Alto Porvorim. The final will be played on October 13. (ANI)

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