Bhagwat Chandrasekhar declares open Twenty20 World Cup for Blind

Former India cricketer Bhagwat Chandrasekhar declared open the Twenty20 World Cup for Blind during its inauguration ceremony at the Kanteerva Stadium on Saturday.

Apart from lilting songs by A R Rahman and other music directors, there were several eye catching and spectacular cultural events organised by the hosts.

Vibrant dancers created sparkling motifs in the arena. School children zipped through, forming a dosser of myriad colours.

Nine captains featuring in the premier T20 World Cup waved to the packed audience, underlining a feeling of intimacy.

Tradition blended with modernity during the nearly three-hour show. Folk music and performers in exquisite attires held centrestage.

The first ever Twenty20 World Cup for blind will witness nine countries battling it out for the trophy here from December 2 to 13.

Besides hosts India, Australia, Bangladesh, England, Pakistan, South Africa, West Indies, Sri Lanka and Nepal will participate in the tournament.

Interestingly, Nepal, for the first time in the history of blind cricket, would field two women players in World Cup matches.

The inaugural match will be played between India and Australia on Sunday.

Tata Tea is the prime sponsor of the Indian team and State Bank of India is the title and principal sponsor of the tournament.