 Blind cricketers enjoy a practice session in Lahore |
India's blind cricket team has crossed into Pakistan to play a series of matches devoted to promoting peace-building ties between the countries. The tour, India's blind team's first in Pakistan, comes just weeks before the national team embark on their first tour of Pakistan for 14 years.
"We come here with a message of peace and love," said Manvendra Singh, captain of the Indian blind team.
"I think this visit will promote sporting ties between the countries."
India and Pakistan faced each other in the Indian city of Madras last year during the six-nation World Cup cricket for the blind, which was won by Pakistan.
Though the players refer to themselves as blind, some have limited vision. All play a game similar to regular cricket.
The matches are played with a white plastic ball filled with tiny ball bearings that make a rattling noise to alert the batsman and the fielders.
Before delivering, the bowler gives an audio clue to the batsman, who reciprocates if he is ready.
While Singh insisted that promoting peace was his goal, he admitted he wanted to avenge last year's World Cup loss.
"This time we will try to win," he said.
MMIX
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 