Champions recognised: WCD Ministry celebrates India’s women’s blind cricket team

Fresh from their historic triumph at the inaugural T20 World Cup for the Blind, the Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the Blind was warmly celebrated today by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. For the players, the felicitation ceremony, led by Union Minister Annpurna Devi, was a moment of pride and validation, recognising not only their World Cup victory but also the determination and resilience that defined each of their journeys to the title.

The Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the Blind, led by Captain Deepika T. C. from Karnataka and Vice-Captain Ganga S. Kadam from Maharashtra, remained undefeated throughout the tournament, displaying remarkable teamwork, resilience, and excellence.

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In a high-energy final against Nepal, India clinched victory by seven wickets in Colombo on 23rd November. India restricted Nepal to 114/5 and chased down the target in just 12.1 overs. The win was powered by outstanding performances across the team.

Phula Saren delivered a decisive 44 off 27 balls, earning the Player of the Match title. Captain Deepika T. C. stood out for her all-round brilliance, including a memorable 91 off 58 balls against Australia.

Karuna Pangi Kumari, a Class 10 student from Visakhapatnam, impressed with her composed 42 runs in the final. Durga Yevle, born in 2003, inspired many with her journey from a small-town background to the national stage through hard work and determination.

Addressing the team, the WCD Minister noted that their achievement “embodies the spirit of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and reflects the aspirations of a nation committed to empowering every girl to dream, aspire, and achieve.” She highlighted that such accomplishments showcase the potential of India’s daughters in driving the country’s progress towards a Viksit Bharat, where opportunities are accessible and inclusive.

The Ministry expressed great pride in hosting the team and celebrating their historic success, noting that their achievement marks a significant milestone not only in women’s blind cricket but also in India’s broader journey of gender equality and inclusive development.

Meenakshi Lekhi, former Union Minister of State for External Affairs and serving as the Chairperson of the World Organizing Committee for the SBI 1st Women’s T20 World Cup Cricket for the Blind, praised the team for breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks for women and girls with disabilities. She emphasised that the victory stands as a powerful example of determination, talent, and national pride.