Women in Blue make history: India wins inaugural Blind Women’s T20 World Cup

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India’s blind women’s cricket team made history by winning the first-ever Blind Women’s T20 World Cup, beating Nepal in the final. Nepal were restricted to 114 for 5 in their 20 overs, but India’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure throughout. In reply, India chased down the target with ease, scoring 117 for 3 in just 12 overs, to win by seven wickets.

The tournament was hosted in Sri Lanka, bringing together the best blind women’s teams in the world. The final was played at Colombo’s iconic P. Sara Oval, a fitting stage for a truly historic moment.

The chase was anchored by a composed and powerful innings from Phula Saren, who scored 44 off 27 balls and helped steer India to a dominant finish.

The batters responded with remarkable composure, racing past the target with powerful stroke play and calm determination. Opener Phula Saren starred with an all-round show, anchoring the chase with a fluent knock while also contributing crucial overs with the ball, earning recognition as the standout performer of the match.

As the players celebrated with the Indian national flag held high, the moment carried emotional weight far beyond the scoreboard.

Image: X – @ThakurArunS
Image: X – @ThakurArunS

What made this triumph even more special was India’s unbeaten run throughout the tournament. From dominant wins in the group stages to a strong semi-final display, the team exhibited consistency, teamwork and an unwavering belief in their abilities, showcasing strength in batting, bowling, and fielding in every match.

Their campaign wasn’t just a sporting journey — it became a story of resilience and representation, showcasing what women athletes with visual impairment can achieve when supported and given the platform they deserve.

Congratulations to India for their historic victory, and to Nepal for a stellar tournament run and making it to the final.

India Squad (Winning Team): Deepika T C (captain), Phula Saren, Karuna Kumari, Anu Kumari, Jamuna Rani Tudu, Kavya V, Anekha Devi, Basanti Hansda, Simu Das, Sunita Sarathe, Parbati Marndi, Ganga S Kadam, Kavya N R, Sushma Patel, Simranjeet Kaur, Durga Yevle.

Nepal squad (Runners-up): Binita Pun (captain), Laxmi Lama, Binita Somai, Dillisara Dhamala, Bimala Rai, Mankeshi Chaudhary, Susma Tamang, Ishara Maya Lungeli, Kanti Yogi, Prativa Rai, Sarita Ghimire, Punam Kumari Chaudhary.

This win is a landmark for blind women’s cricket and a major achievement for inclusive sport in India, sending a message that vision impairment is no barrier to excellence.

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