In a groundbreaking initiative that celebrates both talent and resilience, the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) has announced a coaching camp for 29 exceptional women cricketers, who’ve excelled in national competitions. From March 24 to March 28, 2025, Bangalore will become the epicenter of empowerment as visually impaired athletes from across the nation come together to receive expert training and mentorship.
This five-day camp is not just a training opportunity; it symbolizes a pivotal moment in the journey towards inclusivity and equality in sports. With the steadfast support of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, this initiative aims to nurture the unparalleled potential of women in blind cricket, breaking barriers and paving the way for a future where every woman, regardless of her challenges, has the chance to shine on the international stage.
The participants in the coaching camp includes 10 players in the B1 category (those with severe visual impairment), 9 in the B2 category (with moderate visual impairment), and 10 in the B3 category (with mild visual impairment), all directed to providing expert training, mentorship, and performance evaluations, setting the foundation for participants’ careers in national and international competitions.
“On this Women’s Day, as we celebrate the achievements of women across sectors, we also acknowledge the resilience and the potential of visually impaired women athletes. This camp is more than just training, it is about breaking barriers, nurturing raw talent, and building a future where women’s blind cricket thrives.
“With players coming in from different states, this initiative strengthens the foundation of women’s blind cricket in India and highlights the depth of talent in the sport,” said Dr Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Chairman of CABI, emphasizes that the camp is not merely about training; it’s about nurturing talent and fostering an environment where women’s blind cricket can flourish.
The initiative aims to empower visually impaired women by creating equitable opportunities in sports, highlighting their strength, resilience, and potential.
With participants from diverse states like Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and more, the camp represents a collective effort to build a robust foundation for women’s blind cricket in India. This initiative serves as a beacon for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that talent can thrive regardless of barriers faced.
CABI and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled are taking significant strides toward inclusivity in sports, ensuring that every woman’s talent is recognized and celebrated. This coaching camp not only highlights the depth of talent in women’s blind cricket but also aims to inspire future generations of athletes to pursue their passions fearlessly.
As we look ahead, the efforts exemplified by this camp represent a pivotal moment in the journey towards equality in sports, encouraging more women to break barriers and redefine their limits in cricket and beyond.
Players Participating in the Training Camp:
B1 Category (10 Players):
V Ravanni – Andhra Pradesh
Simu Das – Rajasthan
Arthi – Madhya Pradesh
Rakshitha – Karnataka
Jamuna Rani Tudu – Odisha
Priya – Madhya Pradesh
Karuna – Andhra Pradesh
Sanjana – Delhi
Kavya V – Karnataka
Annu Sharma – Bihar
B2 Category (9 Players):
Sunitha Srathe – Madhya Pradesh
Sunitha Dondappanavar – Karnataka
Simran Jeet Kaur – Rajasthan
Jiya Chaubey – Chandigarh
Rachana Jena – Odisha
Basanti Hansda – Odisha
Anekha Thakur – Delhi
Hamsika Hams – Telangana
Sandra Davis – Kerala
B3 Category (10 Players):
Deepika TC – Karnataka
Phulla Saren – Odisha
Jhili Birua – Odisha
Sushma Patel – Madhya Pradesh
Ramya Chodipilli – Andhra Pradesh
Durga Evle – Madhya Pradesh
Kavya NR – Karnataka
Ganga Kadam – Maharashtra
Muskan – Rajasthan
Adwaitha – Kerala
(Quotes sourced from CABI Media Release)
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