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Key Points

Odisha has made cricket history by having four visually impaired tribal women selected for India's inaugural Women's T20 World Cup for Blind. These exceptional athletes, including captain Phula Saren and vice-captain Basanti Hansda, represent a quarter of the national squad. Their selection highlights the growing recognition and opportunities for visually impaired women in sports. The Cricket Association for Visually Impaired in Odisha celebrated their remarkable achievement, marking a significant milestone in inclusive sports representation.

Key Points: Odisha's Visually Impaired Women Shine in T20 World Cup Squad

  • Phula Saren leads Odisha's visually impaired women's cricket contingent
  • Four players represent quarter of India's national blind cricket squad
  • Tribal athletes showcase exceptional skills in international tournament
  • CAVI Odisha celebrates players' historic achievement in blind cricket
2 min read

Cricket Association for Visually Impaired in Odisha felicitates 4 players selected for Women's T20 WC for Blind

Four tribal women from Odisha selected for India's inaugural Women's T20 World Cup for Blind, showcasing remarkable sporting talent and resilience.

"I feel proud to represent India and will give my best to lift the World Cup. - Phula Saren, Team Captain"

Bhubaneswar, Oct 8

Cricket Association for the Visually Impaired (CAVI), Odisha, organised a civic felicitation ceremony to honour four visually impaired tribal girls from the state, who have been chosen to represent India in the inaugural Women's T20 World Cup – Cricket for the Blind, scheduled to be held from November 11–25 in India and Sri Lanka.

The selected players -- Phula Saren, Basanti Hansda, Jamuna Rani Tudu, and Parbati Marandi -- constitute one-quarter of the national squad, marking a proud moment for Odisha and a historic milestone for women's blind cricket.

Phula Saren, the captain of the Odisha team, is a seasoned all-rounder and a 2023 IBSA World Games Gold Medallist who has represented India in various international tournaments. Known for her consistency with both bat and ball, Phula has emerged as a reliable leader for the visually impaired women's team.

She shared, "I feel proud to represent India and will give my best to lift the World Cup."

Basanti Hansda, the vice-captain of the Odisha team and also a World Games Gold Medallist, is celebrated for her exceptional all-round skills and sharp fielding. She expressed, "Thanks to CAVI Odisha for preparing us; I am confident to help India win the World Cup."

The felicitation acknowledged the players' remarkable achievements, determination, and their inspiring journey from Odisha's tribal heartlands to the international stage.

With Jamuna's pace bowling and Parbati's agility behind the stumps, these young athletes exemplify grit, skill, and the rising strength of women's blind cricket in India.

Earlier this month, the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) announced the squad for the upcoming mega event, and preparations have since begun for the Women's T20 World Cup - Cricket for the Blind.

Meanwhile, the CABI has begun preparations for the upcoming World Cup. Earlier this week, CABI Chairman Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar met the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, and presented details of the mega event.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

A
Arjun K
Phula Saren being a World Games Gold Medallist and now leading the team - what an amazing achievement! These girls are breaking barriers in every possible way. More power to them!
R
Rohit P
While this is wonderful news, I wish mainstream media gave more coverage to para sports and blind cricket. These athletes work just as hard but get very little recognition.
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Sarah B
As someone who works with differently-abled communities, this makes me so happy! The fact that these girls are from tribal backgrounds makes their achievement even more significant. True role models! ✨
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Vikram M
Odisha producing champions yet again! From hockey to now blind cricket, our state has so much sporting talent. Proud moment for all Odias! 🙏
M
Michael C
The determination and spirit these players show is remarkable. Playing cricket without sight requires incredible skill and awareness. Wishing Team India all the best for the World Cup!

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