On August 14, the Indian men’s contingent will arrive in London to participate in the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) World Games 2023, which will be held in Birmingham from August 18 to 27. The event will feature various sports, including Archery, Chess, Cricket, Blind Football, Partially Sighted Football, Women’s Football, Goalball (Male/Female), Judo, Powerlifting, Showdown, Ten Pin Bowling, and Tennis.
Ajay Kumar Reddy, the captain of the Indian Blind Cricket Team, expressed his determination to make India proud by winning gold at the World Games. However, he emphasized the challenges they face with funding despite their numerous World Cup victories. The team relies on financial support to improve facilities and enhance their performance.
Aakash Chopra, the former Indian cricketer, showed his support for both the men’s and women’s Indian Blind Cricket Teams, urging everyone to rally behind them as they embark on this significant journey to represent the nation in Birmingham.
The teams were selected during selection trials held in Bengaluru in May, and they are eagerly gearing up for the upcoming tournament. The Indian men’s team will play a practice match after arriving in London on August 15, following their Independence Day celebrations. The women’s team will join them three days later, and both teams are scheduled to play their first matches on August 20. The men’s team will take on Pakistan, while the women’s team will face Australia in their opening matches.