The Indian men’s blind cricket team clinched their first victory at the IBSA World Games 2023 by defeating Australia with an impressive 8-wicket triumph in Birmingham. After a setback against Pakistan on the previous day, the Indian team showcased their resilience and determination against Australia.
In the men’s game, Australia, batting first, encountered a challenging start as they lost their initial wicket in the very first over. The partnership of M Zannis and S Nero helped stabilize the innings, as they navigated the powerplay cautiously. S Nero contributed a noteworthy 51 runs off 43 balls, while M Cameron added a valuable 38 runs from 39 balls. Australia managed to set a target of 140 runs for India in their allotted 20 overs.
India’s response was swift and resolute, with Nareshbhai Balubhai Tumda delivering a splendid half-century (62 not out off 33 balls). Supported by Sunil Ramesh’s 47 runs and Nakula Badanayak’s 25 runs, India comfortably chased down the target in just 13 overs, securing a convincing victory over Australia.
On the women’s side, India showcased their dominance by defeating England by a staggering 185 runs, marking their second win in the IBSA World Games 2023.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India’s women’s team displayed a fiery start, with Gangavva Neelappa Harijan leading the charge. The team amassed an impressive 97 runs during the powerplay, thanks to Neelappa’s explosive batting. Her remarkable century (117 off 60 balls) propelled India beyond the 200-run mark in the 14th over. Vice-captain Phula Saren and Valasanaini Ravanni contributed significantly, scoring 49 and 54 runs respectively, leading India to a total of 268/2 in 20 overs.
In response, England struggled from the beginning, managing just 22 runs in the first 4 overs while losing one wicket. Their difficulties persisted as wickets continued to fall during the chase. England’s batters found it challenging to establish themselves, resulting in a modest total of 83/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
The Indian men’s blind cricket team is set to face England on Tuesday, while the women’s team will take on Australia on Wednesday as part of the IBSA World Games 2023 in Birmingham.
Brief Scores: India Women 268/2 (Gangavva Neelappa Harijan 117) defeated England Women 83/8 (K Jelfs-White 32)
India Men 141/2 (Nareshbhai Balubhai Tumda 62) defeated Australia 139/4 (S Neor 51)