India crowned first-ever champions of the women’s blind T20 World Cup: India created history at the P Sara Oval on Saturday as they clinched the inaugural SBI Women’s T20 World Cup – Cricket for the Blind 2025 with a commanding 7-wicket victory over Nepal. The final turned into a celebration of courage, inclusion, and sporting excellence, further elevated by the presence of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, who attended as the Chief Guest. Her participation added prestige to a milestone event for women’s blind cricket worldwide.
This triumph adds to a remarkable month for Indian women’s cricket. Earlier in November, the Indian Women’s Cricket Team lifted the 50-over World Cup, marking a dominant rise across formats. With victories in both the ODI and blind T20 World Cups, Indian women now proudly dominate world cricket, showcasing unmatched depth, resilience, and talent.
India Dominate the Final After a Smart Toss Decision
India made a bold start by opting to field after winning the toss. The strategy paid off instantly. Nepal lost their skipper Binita Pun for 5, dismissed by B2 Sunitha Srathe in just the second over. Although Nepal recovered through Sarita Ghimire’s 35 (38) and Bimala Rai’s 26 (26), they relied heavily on 25 extras to reach 114/5 in 20 overs—a competitive yet chaseable total.
A Shaky Start Turns Into a Sensational Chase
India’s chase began with early setbacks as skipper Deepika and in-form batter Anekha Devi fell quickly to Ghimire’s fiery spell. However, India regained control through a stunning counterattack.
B1 Karuna blasted 42 off 27, showing fearless intent, while B3 Phula Saren anchored the innings with a match-winning 44 off 27. B2 Basanti Hansda’s steady 13 (12) carried India to 117/3, sealing a historic world title and sparking emotional celebrations around the stadium.
Major Awards Recognise Exceptional Performances
At the closing ceremony, Phula Saren was named Player of the Match.
Player of the Series Awards:
• B1 – Sushma Tamang (Nepal)
• B2 – Mankeshi Chowdhary (Nepal)
• B3 – Mehreen Ali (Pakistan)
The Chintals Group announced a cash prize of INR 1 lakh for every Indian player, with additional support expected.
Prime Minister Amarasuriya Applauds a New Era for Inclusive Sport
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya hailed the players as “true inspirations,” praising their discipline, courage, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. She emphasised that Sri Lanka was honoured to host such a landmark tournament and called it “a milestone in disability inclusion.”
She added, “When guided by vision, discipline, and purpose, the dreams of women and persons with disabilities in sport are not just possible — they are unstoppable.”
CABI Leaders Celebrate a Defining Moment for the Sport
Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Chairman of CABI, lauded the high-quality competition and praised Sri Lanka’s hospitality. He urged stronger government support and structured pathways for visually impaired women athletes.
“These athletes have proved their talent — now they deserve the systems and backing to soar even higher,” he said.
A Victory That Will Inspire Generations
India’s triumph represents a watershed moment for women’s blind cricket. The championship showcased determination, skill, and the belief that pioneers rewrite history through perseverance and purpose.
Distinguished Guests Grace the Grand Finale
The ceremony was attended by:
Dr Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka; Ms Meenakashi Lekhi, Chair – Organising Committee & Former Minister of State for External Affairs, India; Dr Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Chairman – CABI; Mr Santosh Jha, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka; Mr Buse Gowda, President – CABI; Mr Sudesh Taranga, Sri Lanka Cricket Association for the Visually Handicapped; Deputy Minister Dinindu Saman Hennayake; Hon. Sugath Vasantha D. Silva, MP Sri Lanka; High Commissioner Matthew Duckworth, Australian High Commission; Ms J. Howell, Deputy Chief of Mission, USA Embassy; Ms Anita Sontumyra, SBI Country Head – Sri Lanka; Mr Chandra Schaffter, legendary cricketer; Mr Adarsh Shastri, Former MLA, Delhi; Ms Yummi Talwar, COO – South Asia, VFS Global; Mr Gihan De Silva, Chairman – Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation; Professor Indika Karunathilake, Vice Chancellor – University of Colombo; Mr Sulthan Shah, President – World Blind Cricket Council; Mr Rajnish Henry, Secretary General – WBCC; and Mr Shailender Yadav, Secretary – CABI.
