In pictures: 2018 Blind Cricket World Cup kicks off in Lahore

Cricket

In pictures: 2018 Blind Cricket World Cup kicks off in Lahore

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(Web Desk) – The 5th edition of the Blind Cricket World Cup has kicked off in Lahore as hosts Pakistan face Bangladesh in the opening game of the tournament.

On Sunday, an opening ceremony of the event was held at the Gaddafi Stadium featuring cultural dances and performances. The colourful ceremony was also attended by Punjab’s Sports Minister Jahangir Shuja Khanzada.

Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Australia and India are participating in the tournament.

While three matches are scheduled to be played in Pakistan, the remaining matches will be held in the United Arab Emirates. In the wake of growing tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian team is now scheduled to play all of its matches in the UAE.

The fifth edition of the tournament that started on Sunday will end on January 19.

Pakistan s team enters the venue in Lahore during the inaugural ceremony of the 5th ODI Blind Cricket World Cup. Photo: Pakistan Blind Cricket Council Facebook page

The team sits in the audience during the inaugural ceremony in Lahore. Photo: Pakistan Blind Cricket Council Facebook page

Colourful performances during the oprning ceremony. Photo: Pakistan Blind Cricket Council Facebook page

Artists perform traditional Khattak dance with swords during the inaugural ceremony of 5th ODI Blind Cricket World Cup at the Cultural Complex. Photo: OINN

Traditional bhangra being performed during the inaugural ceremony of 5th ODI Blind Cricket World Cup in Lahore. Photo: OINN

Punjab Sports Minister Jahangir Shuja Khanzada plays a shot during the inaugural ceremony. Photo: OINN

Dignitaries, teams and audiences stand during the national anthem at the opening ceremony. Photo: Pakistan Blind Cricket Council Facebook page.

Pakistani team waves at the crowd during the inaugural ceremony. Photo: OINN