CABI refuses to accept Rs 10 lakh cash reward for winning T20 Blind Cricket World Cup

The CABI president called on the government and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to give them the official recognition.

New Delhi: Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) has refused to accept the Rs 10 lakh cash award announced by Sports Minister Vijay Goel.

Goel on Monday felicitated the Indian blind cricket team for a comprehensive win over arch-rivals Pakistan to defend the Blind T20 Cricket World Cup.

Speaking to ANI, CABI president, GK Mahantesh said that the players were disappointed with the meager amount for the entire team.

"Our boys are little disappointed," he said. Last time, when our boys won the World Cup, they got Rs. 5 lakh each. So, this time they were expecting more. Hopefully, bigger cash prizes will be announced," Mahantesh said.

"I don't know if it is for the team or individuals. If it is for the team (cash prize of Rs. 10 lakhs), they won't accept it. They don't want the cash prize," he added.

The CABI president further called on the government and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to give them the official recognition.

"The sad part is we are still struggling for resources. The government is yet to give us official recognition. In 2002, when Pakistan won the World Cup, immediately they were recognised. That is the kind of speed at which other countries are working. I don't know why our government is sleeping on it," he said.

"They should quickly react. It would be great if the government and BCCI recognise, embrace and endorse this (CABI). It's a shame because if they don't do so. Our boys have won four championships in the last four years. It is high time they respond and positively recognise this otherwise it will be a big insult to our country," he added.

(With ANI inputs)