Bengaluru, September 04, 2025: India Orange emerged champions of the NTT DATA Women’s T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2025, defeating India Red in the final held at Altiore Sports – The Oval in Bengaluru. The tournament was organized by Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled and the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) in collaboration with NTT DATA under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program.
The initiative included a national coaching camp and tournament designed to build confidence, discipline, and sportsmanship among visually impaired women cricketers while identifying talent for the upcoming inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind in November 2025. The World Cup will feature seven nations including India, Australia, England, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the USA.
Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Chairman of CABI and Founder Managing Trustee of Samarthanam Trust, said, “The players received a high-quality 12-day coaching program designed to enhance their performance. They are now better prepared to compete against the world’s best teams. Thanks to NTT DATA for helping blind cricketers stay mentally and physically refreshed.”
Gauri Bahulkar, Sr. Director of Global CSR at NTT DATA, added, “We congratulate India Orange, for winning the NTT DATA Champions Trophy. It’s been a privilege to partner this initiative which marks a powerful step forward in the journey of inclusive sports. At NTT DATA, we believe that true innovation begins with equal opportunity—and these 56 remarkable women athletes are a testament to what’s possible when barriers are removed and potential is nurtured. We are proud to continue our partnership with Samarthanam and CABI in championing the Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind, and in creating platforms where resilience, talent, and leadership shine.”
Chief Guest Ms. Sushma Godbole, IAS, Secretary of the Karnataka State Information Commission, congratulated the winners and extended best wishes to all players. The closing ceremony was also attended by Mr. Rajnish Henry, Secretary General of the World Blind Cricket Council, and Mr. Ajay Reddy, Arjuna Awardee and former captain of the Indian Men’s Blind Cricket Team.
Due to a delayed start caused by a wet outfield, the final was reduced to 10 overs per side. Batting first, India Orange scored 94/1 with Simu Das (B1) leading the innings with 54 runs off 31 balls. India Red, chasing the target, fell short as India Orange’s bowlers and fielders maintained control. Simu Das was named Player of the Match, while Simu Das (B1), Anekha Thakur (B2), and Deepika TC (B3) were awarded Player of the Series honors.
India Orange lifted the trophy along with a cash prize of INR 1,00,000. The winning squad, led by captain Ganga Kadam (B3) and coached by Sukhram Majhi, included Simu Das, Vaishali Gavit, Rakshitha, Pooja Singh, Jamunarani Tudu, Parbati Marndi, Simranjeet Kour, Basanti Hansda, Mikka, Preethi Kumari, Muskan, Jhili Birua, and Pratima Gosh.
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