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Manipal, 23.11.2023 - Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, in collaboration with Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Agraja Foundation Udupi, and the Karnataka Cricket Association for the Blind, proudly announces the upcoming State Level T-10 Women’s Cricket Tournament for Blind. This landmark event, taking place on November 29th and 30th, 2023, at the MAHE A ground in Manipal, serves as a crucial platform for identifying talent for the Women’s National Cricket Tournament, slated for January in Hubli.

The tournament will feature four teams, comprising 56 top players from across Karnataka, who will compete in this prestigious event. These players will not only be playing for the trophy but also for the opportunity to represent Karnataka at the national level.

The event is set to begin with an inauguration ceremony at 9 am on November 29th and will conclude with a closing ceremony at 3:30 PM on November 30th, both at the same venue. The Blind Women’s Cricket Tournament is a celebration of the spirit and skills of visually impaired women, providing a unique platform for showcasing their cricketing prowess and fostering a sense of empowerment and inclusion within the community. It underscores the importance of sports in the lives of the visually impaired, promoting health, teamwork, and resilience.

Participants will receive comprehensive support including complimentary food and accommodation, uniforms, shoes, transportation, remuneration, cash prizes, and additional amenities, ensuring a focus on their performance and experience.

The press meeting was graced by distinguished guests who shared their perspectives on this pioneering initiative. Dr. Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar, Chairman of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and Founder Managing Trustee of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, spoke about the tournament’s significance in promoting sports among visually impaired women and its broader impact on inclusivity in sports and also he said, “This tournament is the first step in making the sport accessible for all the blind women in the state. Opportunities like these will bring out the talents we have in abundance and propel them to make a career out of Cricket. I wish all the teams and players who are participating in the tournament the very best and we hope to bring about similar initiatives in the future to help achieve everyone’s goals”.

Dr. HS Ballal, Pro Chancellor of MAHE, expressed his views on the collaboration with Samarthanam and the role of MAHE in fostering sports and inclusivity. Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, shared his happiness about the partnership with Samarthanam and the positive implications for the community. Dr. Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor – Health Sciences, welcomed the gathering, highlighting the health benefits of sports participation. Dr. Giridhar Kini, registrar of MAHE, offered a vote of thanks, appreciating the efforts of all stakeholders involved in making this event possible.

This tournament is a testament to the commitment to promoting inclusivity and sportsmanship, bringing together cricket enthusiasts, and fostering a sense of camaraderie within our community. More than just a game, it signifies a movement toward a more inclusive world.