Bengaluru, India – July 4, 2022 - The Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled are pleased to announce that NTT DATA, a digital business and IT services leader, is supporting the top 56 visually impaired cricketers of CABI on their journey to the 3rd T-20 World Cup Cricket for the Blind. NTT DATA has sponsored a 12-day coaching camp that will host 56 visually impaired cricketers competing for a position on the national team. 

“The stage is set for the beginning of qualification for the inaugural edition of our 3rd T20 World Cup,” said Mahantesh G.K., President, CABI. “Thanks to NTT DATA for setting the tone for an exciting build-up to support the game of cricket for the visually impaired. Through this coaching and tournament series, the blind cricketers will be able to showcase their talents in front of the world and help them prepare for a transition by developing soft skills, strong work ethic, and leadership skills essential for their successful performance.”

The coaching camp begins on July 11 and will take place on two grounds in Bengaluru. It will serve as the qualification pathway as the selection committee identifies the top 29 players for further Coaching. 17 of the top 29 players will be selected to represent India at the upcoming Blind World Cup. Once chosen, the players will undergo sports and life skills training, including virtual digital and financial literacy classes leading to their participation in the T-20 World Cup for the Blind. 

The players will also receive a monthly stipend for five months to maintain their sports training and fitness schedules to prepare them for this prestigious international tournament

“We are proud to support the top 56 Indian Visually Impaired Cricketers and are looking forward to the display of talent, resilience and strength during the camp,” Ankur Dasgupta, Vice President, Global CSR & India Marketing at NTT DATA Services. “We are also thankful for the positive impact that CABI and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled drive to enhance inclusivity in sports further. Their dedication to increasing the opportunities available for the visually impaired while putting India on the world map is truly commendable.” 

The T-20 World Cup Cricket for the Blind will be held across multiple cities in India and include teams from India, Australia, New Zealand, West Indies, Nepal, England Sri Lanka, South Africa, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The tournament has the full support of The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the national governing body for cricket in India.