On Sunday, India’s blind women’s cricket team marked a historic win with their jubilant return. They won the very first Twenty20 World Cup for the blind in Colombo, Sri Lanka! The team continued their strong run of form with a resounding seven-wicket victory against Nepal that clinched the title in the last game. Celebrated as one of the biggest achievements in Indian sports, this victory embodies another significant step toward inclusivity and opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
The six teams that participated in the tournament were India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Australia, and the United States. They went head to head in a thrilling double-elimination format. In that final, India won the toss and chose to bowl first before skittling Nepal’s batting order for 114 runs in five wickets. The Indian team carefully and efficiently went about chasing down the massive target. They finished chasing down their target of 115 runs in only 12 overs with three wickets remaining.
Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar, chairman of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India, said he was “extremely proud”. He expressed joy for how special that team’s run was. He noted how impactful this victory will be in inspiring the next generation of women and people with disabilities to participate in sport.
“This victory will encourage many women and many other persons with disabilities across India to pursue cricket and other sports.” – Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar
Most of the Indian blind women cricketers hail from rural India. This lack of understanding is perhaps not surprising, given that they have only embraced the sport in recent years. They hail from rural, farming families and small-town cornbelt hostels that embody a fierce resolve to win at any cost. The B1 class in blind cricket allows completely blind players to use runners in the interest of safety. In this category, each run scored is doubled.
Even Federal Minister Amit Shah welcomed this achievement, hailing the moment as a “historic day for Indian sports.” Most importantly, he wanted the pride that the victory instilled in the country to come through on the page.
“Our Tiranga [tricolour] today flutters higher with pride at your achievement. Your triumph mirrors your resolve and dedication to win honours for the nation.” – Amit Shah
The tournament’s signature moments included thrilling renditions exclusive to blind cricket. To help players find it by sound, players kicked a plastic ball filled with metal bearings that jingle. Teams are composed of players from three sight categories: B1 (fully blind), B2, and B3, ensuring a mix of abilities on the field.
Mithali Raj, former captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, made a comment on the far-reaching effect of this victory.
“Some victories remind us that no challenge is ever too big when talent refuses to be limited.” – Mithali Raj
Simu Das, one of the team’s players, expressed her aspirations for what comes next.
“I hope our victory can inspire many more like us.” – Simu Das
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