Skipper Deepika TC’s all-round show guides India to a dominant 10-wicket win in the curtain raiser against Sri Lanka in the inaugural T20 World Cup for the Blind.
In a historic kickoff to the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind, India and Sri Lanka faced off in an exciting encounter, held at the modern school ground in New Delhi, setting the tone for this groundbreaking tournament from 11th to 23rd November, hosted by India and partly in Sri Lanka, for the matches featuring Pakistan.
The match marked a significant milestone in the global recognition of women with visual impairments, showcasing their cricketing talents. Led by the authoritative captain Deepika TC, India’s team demonstrated dominance both in batting and bowling, securing a comfortable victory over Sri Lanka by 10 wickets.
Sri Lanka’s innings was hampered by disciplined Indian bowling, with Jamuna Rani Tudu (2.3-1-2-1), Ganga Kadam (1-0-1-1), alongside skipper Deepika TC (2-0-10-1) impressing with economical spells. Sri Lanka’s top scorer, Mihirani Dulanjali, managed to put up 8 runs off 10 balls, top-scoring with the bat, but couldn’t accelerate the innings for Sri Lanka, as they finished with a modest total of 41 all out in just 13.3 overs.
Chasing a small target, India made a swift statement of their intent from the outset. Openers Deepika TC and Anekha Devi displayed clinical precision, knocking off the runs in just three overs without losing any wickets. Deepika’s commanding 26 runs off 14 balls, including four boundaries, set the tone for India’s commanding victory.
Anekha Devi complemented her captain perfectly, staying unbeaten on 15 runs from just six balls, with a staggering strike rate of 250. Their partnership not only exemplified their prowess but also highlighted the importance of resilience and strategic batting in blind cricket.
India’s triumph was characterised by precision and confidence, with their bowlers applying relentless pressure on Sri Lanka’s batters. Though Sri Lanka’s top scorer Dulanjali valiantly tried to anchor the innings, she fell victim to India’s disciplined bowling attack. The Indian bowlers, especially Jamuna Rani Tudu and Ganga Kadam, demonstrated exceptional control, ensuring Sri Lanka’s innings did not progress beyond their modest total.
This match not only showcased the exceptional skill and strategy of women with visual impairments but also highlighted the increasing inclusivity and reach of cricket. Captains Deepika TC and Mihirani Dulanjali led their teams with determination and sportsmanship, setting inspiring examples for aspiring women cricketers across the globe.
As the tournament unfolds, this opening fixture will be remembered not just for the remarkable performances but also for breaking barriers and fostering greater awareness and respect for adaptive sports. The excitement, skill, and determination displayed today promise a riveting series of fixtures ahead, emphasising that cricket truly is a game for everyone.
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