New Delhi (Agency): In an inspiring moment, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik of Odisha state in India celebrated the achievements of seven visually-challenged cricket players on Friday. These athletes had recently won laurels at the IBSA (International Blind Sports Federation) World Games 2023 held in England.
Four women players from Odisha—Padmini Tudu, Basanti Hansda, Jhili Birua, and Phula Soren—were part of the Indian women’s team that won the gold medal. Recognizing their outstanding accomplishments, the Chief Minister awarded each a cash prize of 20 lakh rupees. “The players have made us all proud with their outstanding achievements in spite of all the challenges they faced in reaching this level. Their remarkable talent, dedication, and hard work is an inspiration for all,” said the Chief Minister during the felicitation.
From the men’s side, Md. Jafar Iqbal, Nakula Badanayak, and Pankaj Bhue were each given a cash prize of 15 lakh rupees. They were part of the Indian men’s team that secured a silver medal at the same event.
IBSA World Games occur every four years and are organized by the International Blind Sports Federation. Interestingly, this year marked the first time that cricket was included in the World Games. The Indian women’s team captured hearts and the gold medal by defeating the Australian team in the finals.
In this historic match, the Indian team restricted Australia to 114/8 in 20 overs and then easily reached the revised target of 42 runs in the fourth over. India’s win was especially memorable because it was the first-ever final for cricket in the World Games.
Earlier this week, the Delhi High Bar Association had also honored India’s blind women’s cricket team, announcing a financial support of 10 lakh rupees to the team members.
The Cricket Association for the Blind in India and the Indian Blind Sports Association have united to promote sports for the visually impaired across the country.
