Bishan Singh Bedi requests BCCI to take over blind cricket under its fold

Former India wicketkeeper Kirmani and all-rounder Madan Lal also inspired the visually challenged cricketers with the stories of their 1983 triumph against all odds.

India Blind Cricket team celebrating their victory in World Cup final against PakistanPhoto:CABI/TWITTER

Former India captain Bishan Singh Bedi and wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani urged the BCCI to take the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) under its aegis, which will be a big boost for India's visually challenged cricketers. Both Bedi and Kirmani were present during the Blind Cricket Conclave 2018 in New Delhi on Friday, where the victorious national team which won the World Cup for the Blind, last year, were also present.

Bedi, in fact, gave them the example of Tiger Pataudi, who played his entire international cricket after losing an eye due to a car accident.

"Tiger lost eyesight before he made his Test debut. He hated if anyone sympathised with him. He never considered it as a physical disability and went on to become India's finest captain. He was a Nawab but never behaved like one," Bedi said during the event.

"You all are an inspiration for millions."

"I would expect the BCCI to take CABI under its fold and give all the assistance they require. You all have shown that even if you don't have eyesight, you can have the vision," Bedi said.

Former India wicketkeeper Kirmani and all-rounder Madan Lal also inspired the visually challenged cricketers with stories of their 1983 triumph against all odds.

"Our World Cup victory is nothing compared to what you people have achieved. You all are my heroes," Madan Lal said.