From Margin To Mainstream: Behavioural Economics and The Underinvestment in Blind Cricket in Developing Nations
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Blind cricket in developing countries remains underrepresented despite its significant social and competitive role for the visually impaired community. This study employs secondary data and comparative analysis across India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and South Africa to examine blind cricket recognition and support. We find chronic underinvestment in facilities and programs though teams have achieved notable international successes, with significant variation in institutional support among these nations. By applying a behavioral economics framework, the analysis identifies salience bias, present bias, social proof, and status quo bias as key barriers sustaining policy inertia. Low visibility of blind cricket (salience), short-term budget pressures (present bias), lack of role models (social proof), and default funding norms (status quo bias) explain why resources remain scarce. These insights highlight the merits of using behavioral economics to move beyond traditional funding patterns. They suggest that reform requires a mental shift equal to a material one, calling for new reforms in inclusive sports policies. Ultimately, the study calls on policymakers and sports authorities to recognize and address these cognitive biases, levelling the playing field for blind cricket. The conclusion echoes the spirit of competition: unless action is taken, blind cricket will remain on the sidelines despite its proven potential.
Author: Aneesh Joshi
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Reduced inequalities
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7117137231
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