In a landmark celebration of sport, inclusion, and international camaraderie, India lifted the inaugural world title of the SBI 1st Women’s T20 World Cup – Cricket for the Blind 2025, securing a commanding 7-wicket win over Nepal at the Sara Oval in Colombo. This triumph saw India become the first-ever world champions of women’s blind T20 cricket.
The grand finale was graced by Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, as the Chief Guest, adding prestige and warmth to the historic evening.
The Match: A Display of Grit
Winning a crucial toss, India opted to field, seizing control early in the game. Nepal’s innings began with the early dismissal of their key wicket, skipper Binita Pun, who was out for 5, bowled by B2 Sunitha Srathe in the second over. Nepal recovered through steady contributions from Sarita Ghimire, who scored 35 off 38 balls, and Bimala Rai, who added 26 off 26. Aided by 25 extras, Nepal managed to post a competitive total of 114/5 in 20 overs.
India’s chase of 115 began shakily, as both skipper Deepika and star batter Anekha Devi departed early, falling victim to a fiery spell from Ghimire. The innings quickly transformed, however, into a display of composure and dominance. B1 Karuna smashed a blistering 42 off 27 deliveries, while B3 Phula Saren delivered a match-winning 44 off 27. Basanti Hansda contributed 13 (12) runs, ensuring India crossed the line at 117/3. Celebrations ignited across the ground as the Women in Blue secured their maiden world crown.
Awards and High Praise
At the closing ceremony, Phula Saren (B3) was deservedly named Player of the Match. The Player of the Series awards recognized top talent across categories: B1 went to Sushma Tamang (Nepal), B2 to Mankeshi Chowdhary (Nepal), and B3 to Mehreen Ali (Pakistan).
Following the victory, Chintals Group announced a cash prize of INR 1 lakh per Indian player, with promises of more support to follow.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya hailed the players as “true inspirations,” thanking them for demonstrating what courage and commitment can achieve. She stated that Sri Lanka was proud and honoured to host this historic tournament on such a significant ground, calling it a milestone in disability inclusion. She affirmed that the championship is a powerful collective statement for access, equity, and rising participation of women in sport. Dr. Amarasuriya emphasized that when guided by vision, discipline, and purpose, the dreams of women and persons with disabilities in sport are not just possible, but “they are unstoppable”.
Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Chairman of CABI and Founder Managing Trustee of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, praised the finalists for elevating the global standard of women’s blind cricket, calling the tournament “a defining moment for the sport”. He thanked Sri Lanka for its warm hospitality but urged the government to extend stronger support and structured pathways for its visually impaired women cricketers, noting, “These athletes have proved their talent — now they deserve the systems and backing to soar even higher”.
India’s triumph is marked as a watershed moment for women’s blind cricket, symbolizing a victory of grit, resolve, and the belief that history is written by those who dare to dream.
Dignitaries Attend Historic Ceremony
The closing ceremony saw the attendance of numerous high-profile dignitaries, including Ms Meenakashi Lekhi, Chair – Organising Committee & Former Minister of State for External Affairs, India; Mr Santosh Jha, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka; and Mr Buse Gowda, President – CABI.
International presence was noted with High Commissioner Matthew Duckworth of the Australian High Commission and Ms J. Howell, Deputy Chief of Mission, USA Embassy, in attendance. The event also welcomed legendary cricketer Mr. Chandra Schaffter, Mr Adarsh Shastri, Former MLA, Delhi, and Mr. Sulthan Shah, President – World Blind Cricket Council, among other esteemed guests.