Pakistan Blind Cricket Team Creates History: Wins First T20 World Cup Title
In a groundbreaking achievement, Pakistan’s blind cricket team clinched their first-ever Blind T20 World Cup title, defeating Bangladesh by 10 wickets in the final on December 3, 2024, in Multan. This historic victory not only marked a new chapter in Pakistan’s blind cricket history but also ended India’s dominance in the tournament, further solidifying Pakistan’s rise as a dominant force in the sport.
A Historic Win in Multan
Pakistan’s blind cricket team made history by becoming the first team to break India’s grip on the Blind T20 World Cup, with India having previously won all three editions of the tournament in 2012, 2017, and 2022. The final match against Bangladesh was a highly anticipated event, and Pakistan did not disappoint.
Winning the toss, Bangladesh chose to bat first. However, they struggled to build partnerships as they faced a disciplined and clinical Pakistan bowling attack. Despite a fighting 54 off 52 balls from Bangladesh’s Arif Hussain, the rest of the batting lineup could not stabilize the innings. Pakistan’s bowlers maintained tight control throughout, with Babar Ali leading the attack and claiming two key wickets. Mohammad Salman and Matiullah also contributed with a wicket each, helping restrict Bangladesh to a modest total of 139/7 in their allotted 20 overs.
Pakistan’s Perfect Chase
Chasing a target of 140, Pakistan’s opening pair of Nisar Ali and Mohammad Safdar displayed remarkable composure and aggression, cruising to the target with ease. Nisar Ali, the team’s captain, led from the front with a brilliant knock of 72* off just 31 balls. His powerful strokeplay and tactical approach to the chase kept the Bangladesh bowlers under pressure throughout the innings. Safdar, too, contributed an unbeaten 47*, playing a vital supporting role in the partnership. Together, the duo forged an unbroken stand of 141 runs, comfortably guiding Pakistan to victory in just 11 overs, sealing the match with an emphatic 10-wicket win.
This flawless chase not only secured Pakistan’s first T20 World Cup title but also showcased the depth and skill of their blind cricket team, with a dominant display in both batting and bowling. The partnership between Nisar and Safdar, in particular, was a testament to their understanding and flawless execution, underscoring the teamwork and determination that defined their campaign.
Ending India’s Reign
The 2024 Blind T20 World Cup final marked a significant shift in the tournament’s history. India had dominated the competition since its inception, winning all three previous editions in 2012, 2017, and 2022, and defeating Pakistan each time in the final. However, the absence of India from this year’s tournament provided Pakistan with a unique opportunity to assert themselves on the world stage.
India’s withdrawal from the tournament came amid ongoing political and security concerns regarding travel to Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided not to send their team to Pakistan, citing security issues and the broader political context of the cricketing relationship between the two nations. This withdrawal marked a notable moment in the rivalry between India and Pakistan, which has been fraught with tension not only in blind cricket but also in other cricketing formats, including the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to be hosted by Pakistan.
The absence of India from the 2024 Blind T20 World Cup undoubtedly opened the door for Pakistan to claim their first title. However, the victory was all the more sweet for Pakistan, given their previous near-misses in the final stages of the competition. The team’s resilience and determination to succeed in this historic event resonated deeply with cricket fans, who celebrated the triumph as a watershed moment for Pakistan’s blind cricket.
Pakistan’s Journey to the Final
Pakistan’s journey to the final was marked by clinical performances across all departments. They topped their group stage and defeated tough opposition to reach the final. Their bowling attack, led by Babar Ali and Mohammad Salman, proved to be one of the best in the tournament, keeping opposition teams to low totals. Meanwhile, the batting was equally impressive, with Nisar Ali and Mohammad Safdar consistently leading the charge at the top of the order.
Throughout the tournament, Pakistan’s team displayed exceptional skill, composure, and tactical awareness. Their victory is a reflection of years of hard work, teamwork, and a growing focus on blind cricket in Pakistan, supported by the Pakistan Blind Cricket Council (PBCC).
A Step Towards a Brighter Future for Blind Cricket in Pakistan
This victory holds immense significance not just for the players and coaching staff but also for the blind cricket community in Pakistan. The win is expected to inspire a new generation of cricketers, both sighted and visually impaired, and will likely help boost the sport’s profile in the country. Pakistan’s success in the Blind T20 World Cup serves as a testament to the potential and talent present in the blind cricket community, which continues to thrive despite challenges.
The title also marks a new era for Pakistan’s blind cricket, with the team now establishing itself as one of the premier teams in the world. This achievement opens the door for further growth and development of blind cricket in Pakistan, paving the way for more resources and support for the sport.
Looking Ahead: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025
While the victory in the Blind T20 World Cup is a significant milestone, the political tensions between India and Pakistan remain a focal point of cricketing discussions, particularly with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon. India’s withdrawal from the Blind T20 World Cup only serves to deepen the ongoing cricketing standoff between the two nations, raising questions about the future of bilateral series and international tournaments involving both teams.
However, for now, Pakistan’s blind cricket team can savor their moment of glory, as they bask in the historic achievement of winning their first-ever Blind T20 World Cup. The victory has not only brought pride to the nation but also reinforced Pakistan’s position as a rising powerhouse in the world of blind cricket.
