(Image source from: cricketcountry.com)

President of Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) G.K. Mahantesh on Wednesday said BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket of India) should recognize the federation and give them appropriate infrastructure and financial support.

"We have written to the BCCI several times and their response has been very positive till now. However, actions should follow the response. We need positive actions from the custodians of cricket in India," Mahantesh said.

The Indian blind cricket team was shaped in 1998 and is at present being managed by the CABI, a self-governing body backed by the Samarthanam Trust, a non-profit organization.

Asked what CABI expects from the BCCI, Mahantesh said the body is in need of proper infrastructure and financial aid.

"Major help that we are expecting from the BCCI is of infrastructures like grounds, regular funding, and some cash prizes whenever our boys win the World Cup," he said.

"The biggest problem that we face is of the grounds. We have to do with whichever ground is available which is difficult for us."

India is two-timed champions of the Blind World Cup, overcoming neighbor's Pakistan in the final in January this year to retain the trophy.

"The ECB, Cricket Australia, South Africa, and Sri Lanka all are supporting blind cricket in their respective countries. Sometimes when we are asked why the BCCI hasn't recognized us it becomes embarrassing as we have no answer to that," he said.

Mahantesh, who is as well the president of the World Blind Cricket Ltd (WBC), is in negotiations with the International Cricket Council to expand blind cricket internationally too.

"We are also in talks with the ICC. They have asked us to send our recommendations. We hope to receive regular patronage, guidance, support and also help in running the WBC," he said.

"WBC runs only on the membership fees which is not sufficient. We need to come out with broadcast rights and all, WBC is not able to generate the money for umpires, referees etc."

In a major boost to blind cricket, WBC received a donation of USD 1 million to spread the sport worldwide.

"I am happy to contribute for cricket for the blind and its promotion across the world. I believe there can't be a better cause than seeing fellow humans being content," said Subu Kota, Founder and CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of Boston Group USA and President of Samarthanam Trust USA, who donated the amount.

-Sowmya Sangam