Odisha clinches trophy for first Women’s National T-20 tournament at New Delhi

Odisha clinched the trophy for the first Samarthanam Women’s National T-20 Tournament. The event got over last Thursday at New Delhi. The match was a platform for young, blind and aspiring cricketers to come forward. All the team members are thrilled to have got their first ever cricket tournament experience.

The Cricket Association for Blind in India along with Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled recently organised a national tournament for women in Delhi. The event was quite a sight to behold as many young sportswomen showcased their talents at the tournaments. Odisha emerged as the champions of the first-ever Samarthanam Women’s National T-20 Tournament for Blind. Odisha registered a comprehensive 87 run victory over Karnataka in the finals that took place at DDA Sports Complex Siri Fort in Delhi.

Nail-biting performance from blind cricketers

Odisha put up a huge total of 218-8 in 20 overs. They restricted opponents to meagre total of 131-8 in 20 overs during the chase.

Captain Lina Swain and Padmini Tudu of Karnataka was awarded ‘Players of the Match’ for their brilliant performances in batting and fielding respectively. Padmini chipped in with a crucial 16 runs while. Meanwhile, Lina scored an important 33 runs to rescue her team out of initial struggle. She also played a crucial role in running out two opposition batswomen.

I am very happy to play an important role in winning the title for our team. It was a great tournament for us. We enjoyed a lot. I thank Cricket Association for the Blind in India for introducing this competition. This tournament provided us platform to showcase our talent- Lina Swain, Odisha team captain.

upcoming superstars in blind cricket

Karnataka’s Varsha U, Odisha’s Basanti Hasda and Jharkhand skipper Geeta Mahto were awarded with Player of the Series. 

The winning trophy was given by Member of Parliament Meenakshi Lekhi. Other renowned personalities who attended the event included journalist Rajdeep Sardesai and HP Singh from ONGC.

“I am thrilled to meet all these young women. The field women’s participation cannot be ignored. Watching these girls play with such enthusiasm was a delight. I want to wish the winners and all the participants’ good luck for the future. They should continue to encourage more girls to play,” said Meenakshi.

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