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Key Points

The Samarth Championship for Blind Cricket kicked off with an electrifying match in Bengaluru. India's men's blind cricket team demonstrated exceptional skill by defeating South Africa comprehensively. Deepak Malik's remarkable 82 runs was the highlight of the match, leading India to a stunning victory. The tournament represents a powerful platform for athletes with visual impairments to showcase their incredible sporting talent.

Key Points: India Crushes South Africa in Blind Cricket Samarth Championship

  • Deepak Malik's powerful 82 runs drives India's victory
  • South Africa scored 145/7 in opening match
  • Five-match series highlights inclusive sports
  • Supported by Hyundai and Cricket Association for Blind in India
2 min read

India beat South Africa by eight wickets in Samarth Championship for Blind Cricket

Deepak Malik's explosive 82 leads India to an emphatic 8-wicket victory over South Africa in thrilling Blind Cricket series opener

"Our athletes showcase extraordinary talent beyond physical limitations - Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, CABI Chairman"

Bengaluru, May 12

An explosive 82 off 48 balls by Deepak Malik helped India beat South Africa by eight wickets in the second edition of the Samarth Championship for Blind Cricket, which kicked off on Monday at the Sai Krishnan Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

The opening match saw an exciting contest between the two teams, with South Africa opting to bat first after winning the toss. Thanks to a solid innings by Teboho Moloisane (49 runs off 51 balls), South Africa managed to score 145/7 in their 20 overs.

In response, India chased down the target confidently, scoring 146/2 in just 11.3 overs, led by Deepak Malik's explosive 82 off 48 balls. India won the match by 8 wickets, with Manish Kumar contributing a quick-fire 45 runs off 20 balls.

The second edition of the Samarth Championship for Blind Cricket kicked off on Monday with a spectacular inauguration ceremony followed by the opening match of the series.

The series, a five-match international bilateral tournament between the Indian Men's Blind Cricket Team and the South African Men's Blind Cricket Team, is organised under the 'Samarth by Hyundai' initiative and in partnership with the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by dignitaries including Narasimha Murthy B.N, Chancellor of Sri Sathya Sai University, Shreyas Gopal, renowned cricketer and inspiration to many, Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Chairman of CABI and Founding Trustee of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, and Kripa Shankar Mishra, Business Head South, Hyundai Motor India Limited.

In the first edition of the Samarth Championship for Blind Cricket, the Indian men's blind cricket team emerged as winners against the Sri Lankan men's blind cricket team.

The second edition will be a five-match series with South Africa. The next four matches will also be played at the Sai Krishnan Cricket Stadium, Muddenahalli, Bengaluru, with the series ending on May 16. The second edition of the Samarth Championship for Blind Cricket will give the athletes a platform to showcase their talent while encouraging many more with their unbreakable spirit.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
What an inspiring performance by our blind cricket team! Deepak Malik's 82 off 48 is just phenomenal. These players prove that disability is just a word when you have determination. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 #SamarthChampionship
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Priya M.
So proud of our team! But I wish this tournament got more media coverage like IPL does. These athletes deserve equal attention and sponsorship deals. Kudos to Hyundai for supporting this initiative 👏
A
Arjun S.
The way India chased down 145 in just 11.3 overs shows their dominance in blind cricket! Manish Kumar's 45 off 20 was the perfect support to Malik's innings. Hope BCCI gives more recognition to these players.
S
Sunita R.
As a Bengaluru resident, I'm so happy this tournament is happening in our city! Will definitely go watch the next matches. These players are true heroes who overcome challenges daily. More power to them!
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Vikram J.
While the win is commendable, I feel the tournament format could be improved. Only 5 matches seems too short. Why not make it a proper series with Tests and ODIs like regular cricket? Would give more exposure to players.
N
Neha P.
These athletes are the real role models for our youth! Their spirit is more inspiring than many celebrity cricketers. Hope schools show these matches to students - teaches valuable life lessons about perseverance.

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