India’s Blind Women’s Cricket Team made history by winning the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind in 2025, held across India and Sri Lanka, culminating in a final victory against Nepal in Colombo. This victory was marked by the team remaining undefeated throughout the tournament, showcasing India’s growing leadership in promoting disability sports on a global stage.
India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 and chased down the target comfortably in just over 12 overs, with key performances such as Phula Saren’s unbeaten 44 off 27 balls leading the charge and winning the game by 7 wickets. Their dominance was clear from start to finish, beating teams like Sri Lanka, the USA, Pakistan, and Australia along the way.
Captain Deepika TC’s words resonate powerfully when she emphasizes the need for equal recognition and support for visually impaired cricketers, stating, “The cricketers who have vision and can see also represent the country and so do we. We also play for India. Please help and promote blind cricket as much as ‘normal’ cricket is promoted.”
This plea captures the essence of the team’s struggle to gain visibility and acknowledgment in a cricket-obsessed nation, where able-bodied cricket often overshadows the achievements of athletes with disabilities
The journey to this triumph was far from easy. The players come from underprivileged backgrounds, with many from rural farming villages where support for girls, especially those with disabilities, is limited. Convincing families to allow their daughters to pursue cricket was a challenge, skillfully managed by the team manager. Despite language barriers and societal doubts, the players formed a strong bond, supporting each other like sisters as they fought to represent their country with pride
Playing blind cricket requires extraordinary adaptation. Relying heavily on sound rather than sight, players face a unique set of challenges, including frequent injuries due to the bowling and batting styles. The team’s ability to train intensely and strategically, despite limited resources and only a short preparation period, shows their immense dedication and resilience. Their thoughtful game plans allowed them to restore confidence, maintain calm under pressure, and secure victory match after match
The team’s victory is about more than just cricket; it is a call for inclusion and equality. Deepika TC and the team urge cricket authorities like the BCCI and government bodies to provide financial support and employment opportunities to blind cricketers. This kind of backing would motivate more young visually impaired girls to take up sports and help build a more inclusive sporting culture. Support from the Karnataka government, including monetary awards and promised government jobs for players, shows how official recognition can fuel progress and inspire future generations
This historic win has set a precedent and sent a powerful message across India and the world—that courage, talent, and dedication know no visual limits. The Indian Blind Women’s Cricket Team’s success is a shining example of how sport can break barriers and transform lives. Their call to action, to promote blind cricket as passionately as able-bodied cricket, invites everyone to celebrate and support these incredible athletes who proudly play for India
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