PM Modi meets Indian blind women's cricket team after historic T20 World Cup triumph

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met the Indian women’s blind cricket team, congratulating them personally for lifting the inaugural Blind Women’s T20 World Cup after an unbeaten run. The meeting, held in New Delhi, marked a proud moment for the squad, who returned from Colombo after a dominant campaign culminating in a seven-wicket win over Nepal in the final.

During the interaction, the players presented the Prime Minister with an autographed bat as a gesture of gratitude. Modi, in turn, signed a cricket ball for the team, commending their grit, discipline and composure throughout the tournament. He praised the athletes for creating history and highlighted how their achievement would inspire future generations. Earlier in the day, Modi had posted a message on X, calling their victory “historic” and applauding the fact that they remained unbeaten across all matches.

The meeting came amid growing appreciation for the team across the country. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also announced rewards for the players, offering 10 lakh and government jobs to the Karnataka-based members of the squad, while players from other states will



receive 2 lakh each. Thirteen non-Karnataka players are set to benefit from the announcement, reflecting the broader national pride surrounding the team’s achievement.

India’s journey to the title was marked by complete dominance. In the final, they restricted Nepal to 114/5 before cruising to the target in 13 overs. Opener Phula Saren led from the front with a blistering 44 off 27 balls, while Karuna K’s 42 off 27 ensured India faced little pressure during the chase. Saren was named Player of the Match for her decisive innings.

Throughout the tournament, India displayed consistency and confidence, beginning with victories over Sri Lanka and Australia. Their chase of 136 against Pakistan in just 10.2 overs stood out as one of the most emphatic wins of the tournament. A nine-wicket demolition of Australia in the semi-final set the stage for their commanding win over Nepal in the final.

For the players, meeting the Prime Minister served as a moment of recognition and encouragement. For the country, it was a chance to celebrate a team that has etched its name in history and elevated the profile of women’s blind cricket in India.