Skipper Mihirani Dulanjali’s all-round contributions triumph over Stacy DeVaughn’s all-round impact as Sri Lanka register their maiden victory in the inaugural T20 World Cup.
In a thrilling debut edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind 2025, the clash between Sri Lanka and the United States delivered a display of resilience, strategy, and tenacity on the grounds of Modern School, New Delhi.
The tournament of its kind has already ignited a new chapter in women’s cricket, especially among visually impaired cricketers, and this match was no exception as both teams fought valiantly, culminating in a Sri Lankan victory by six wickets. The United States team set the tone with an aggressive batting display in their 20-over innings, finishing at a competitive 183/6. Tatyana’s early gamble to attack was thwarted quickly as she was dismissed for a duck by Sanduni Saumaya on the 2nd ball of the innings.
Stacy DeVaughn’s resilience shone through as she piled up a quick 30 off 18 balls, including some crisp boundaries, establishing a crucial partnership with Abey. Abey also played a commanding role with 21 runs off 19 balls, navigating the Sri Lankan bowling attack with impressive composure. The Americans demonstrated a strategic approach focusing on fast-paced scoring, with 66 total extras, including a hefty number of wides, highlighting their aggressive intent.
However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers responded with tight line and length, effectively restricting their opponents during crucial moments. Sanduni Saumaya (3-0-25-1), skipper Mihirani Dulanjali (4-0-26-0), was impressive with the ball for her side. Swetha Kawmadi (2-0-28-1) and Nipuni Chamoda (4-0-34-1) played their part with the ball for Sri Lanka. Bowling a consistent line and lengths prevented the Americans from mounting a sizable total. The disciplined bowling, combined with strategic pressure, kept the score manageable and set the stage for Sri Lanka’s run chase.
Entering their chase, Sri Lanka’s response was characterised by a combination of calmness and calculated shots. Led by captain Mihirani Dulanjali, who scored an impactful 44 from 39 balls, Sri Lanka’s batting order demonstrated admirable patience. Dulanjali’s leadership at the crease was complemented by contributions from Matheesha Sankethani (19* off 37 balls) and Swetha Kawmadi (6* off 8 balls), both of whom remained not out, sealing the victory with 6 wickets in hand and 6 overs to spare.
Sri Lanka’s batting strategy reflected adaptability; despite losing a quick wicket early, they steadied the innings, capitalising on their experienced players’ ability to rotate the strike and find boundaries at crucial junctures. Defensively, Sri Lanka’s bowlers displayed resilience and clarity, trapping key batsmen with well-executed spells. Dulanjali’s strategic captaincy and her prowess with the ball, despite being a wicket-keeper batter, added an extra layer of brilliance to their comprehensive win. This decisive victory underscores Sri Lanka’s promising prospects in this inaugural women’s blind cricket world cup, emphasising skill, coordination, and mental toughness.
The USA bowlers, Tina (3-0-22-2), skipper Abey (2-0-17-1), and Stacy DeVaughn (3-0-21-1) were impressive with their spells.
The match was more than just a contest of runs and wickets; it was a celebration of perseverance and spirit among women with visual impairments, showcasing the growing inclusivity and reach of cricket. As both teams continue to inspire with their performances, Sri Lanka’s commanding win sets an exciting tone for the tournament’s future fixtures, promising a vibrant showcasing of talent and passion that transcends barriers.
With the foundation laid in this momentous encounter, the Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind is poised to elevate awareness and showcase the extraordinary capabilities of visually impaired cricketers. The game is indeed a testament to resilience, determination, and the unifying power of sport across all boundaries.
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