Indian Women’s Blind Cricket Team Honored by Minister Smriti Irani for Winning Gold

Minister Smriti Irani Commends Indian Women’s Blind Cricket Team’s Gold Medal Win

In a heartening event, Smriti Irani, the Minister of Women and Child Development, extended her felicitations on Monday to the Indian women’s blind cricket team that achieved gold in the prestigious International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) World Games 2023 held in Birmingham.

Having showcased a remarkable performance, the Indian women’s blind cricket team secured a resounding victory by defeating Australia by 9 wickets during the World Games on Saturday. Their exceptional display on the field captured the admiration of spectators and warmed their hearts.

As the cricket players, along with officials from the Cricket Association for Blind in India (CABI), arrived on Monday, they were greeted with a jubilant reception. During this occasion, the Indian women’s blind cricket team had the privilege to meet Minister Smriti Irani. The entire group was lauded by the Union Minister for their outstanding achievement in clinching the gold medal for the nation.

Expressing her pride, Smriti Irani stated, “The Indian women’s blind cricket team has proven that our country’s daughters possess the ability to leave an everlasting mark on the global platform. I extend my hearty congratulations to every member of the team on behalf of the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also acknowledged the accomplishments of our victorious team, and these remarkable young women are the finest ambassadors of the ‘Beti Bachao and Beti Padhao’ initiative.”

Dr. Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar, Chairman of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), expressed gratitude towards Minister Smriti Irani for her generous gesture. He said, “On behalf of Samarthanam and the Cricket Association for Blind in India (CABI), and particularly on behalf of our victorious team, I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Smriti Irani, ma’am. She serves as a tremendous source of inspiration for us, and her support means a great deal.”

“Our girls possess immense potential, and the blessings of the Minister will undoubtedly serve as a strong motivation. If she can offer any assistance, it would be a great honour for us,” Dr. Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar added.

To recognize the team’s remarkable achievement, the Delhi High Court Bar Association proudly announced a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh for the gold medal-winning Indian women’s blind cricket team.

Later in the day, the women’s blind cricket team, accompanied by CABI officials, was cordially received by members of the Delhi High Court Bar Association. In the presence of High Court Judges, the announcement of the Rs 10 lakh cash reward was met with jubilation. Shyam Sharma, Director of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA), was also present on this celebratory occasion.

Varsha, the captain of the victorious team, was deeply moved by the announcement. This rewarding gesture marked the first commitment extended to the triumphant team. She expressed her gratitude for the concern and appreciation demonstrated by the judicial community.