Blind women cricketers from India and Pakistan set aside political tensions on Sunday as they warmly shook hands after their T20 match in Sri Lanka, offering a powerful display of sportsmanship at what organisers describe as the world’s first blind women’s T20 tournament.
Despite strained relations between the two nations, heightened after a deadly military clash earlier this year, the visually impaired athletes demonstrated unity and mutual respect, in stark contrast to their sighted national teams.
Recent matches between India and Pakistan’s regular men’s and women’s teams saw players refuse post-match handshakes, drawing widespread criticism. Many expected the blind athletes to follow suit when neither side shook hands after the toss. Instead, the teams surprised everyone by exchanging handshakes and compliments after the match, having travelled to the ground together on the same bus.
India secured a dominant victory, chasing down Pakistan’s 135 for eight in just 10.2 overs. Pakistan captain Nimra Rafique congratulated India on their performance, while Indian skipper TC Deepika praised Pakistan’s efforts. Though players were not allowed to speak to the press afterward, their gestures on the field spoke volumes.
The match, held at Katunayake’s Free Trade Zone grounds near Colombo, had few spectators but was broadcast live on Sri Lankan national television. Blind officials “watched” by listening to online commentary.
Indian team manager Shika Shetty said the tournament marked a breakthrough for visually impaired women, offering opportunities for education, sport, and empowerment. Pakistan coach Tahir Mehmood Butt echoed the sentiment, noting the expanding avenues for blind female athletes.
Blind cricket uses a rattling ball detectable by sound, and teams must include a mix of fully blind, partially blind, and low-vision players. Six nations — India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Australia, and the United States — are competing, with the final set for next Sunday in Colombo.
