‘ BCCI should take blind cricketers in its fold’

Bishan Singh Bedi put forward the example of Tiger Pataudi, who played international cricket after losing an eye in an accident

Former India captain Bishan Singh Bedi and wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani on Friday urged the cricket control board to take the Cricket Association for the Blind in India under its aegis, which would be a big boost for the country’s visually challenged cricketers.

Bedi and Kirmani were speaking at the Induslnd Bank Blind Cricket Conclave, where the victorious national team that won the World Cup for the Blind, last year, were also present. Bedi put forward the example of Tiger Pataudi, who played his entire international cricket after losing an eye due to a car accident.

“Tiger lost one eye 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 at 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 vision,” Bedi said.

Kirmani and Madan Lal inspired the 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.