Cricket for Blind [C4B] is a version of the sport of cricket adapted for blind and partially sighted players. The rules of C4B are based on the standard laws of cricket with some essential modifications. In terms of playing equipment, the major adaptation is the ball. The stumps are made of hollow steel pipes welded into one set, to enable a blind player to touch it in order to correctly orient hi
mself when batting or bowling also to produce a sound when struck by a ball. Over the years, audio balls replaced the empty tin, and bats are used in place of sticks. National Institute for the Visually Handicapped (NIVH), Dehradun, developed the audio ball that is now accepted as the international standard. This ball is made of hard plastic with ball bearings inside. Some of the aspects of the game have been modified to make it suitable for the visually impaired. Various other modifications to the rules apply. Verbal signals are widely used by both umpires and players in particular; the bowler must shout 'Play!' as he releases the ball. The delivery is required to pitch at least twice when bowled to a batsman, but must not be rolling. Totally blind fielders are allowed to take a catch on the bounce.
