Pics: Jeevan D'Costa
Media Release
Udupi, Nov 23: “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,” said Dr H S Ballal, pro chancellor of MAHE.
Addressing the press briefing he said, “This landmark event, taking place on November 29 and 30, at the MAHE 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 on November 29 and will conclude with a closing ceremony on November 30, 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."
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, speaking 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.” He also assured that 100 blind persons will be participating in the full marathon category during the upcoming "Manipal Marathon 2024."
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 the community. More than just a game, it signifies a movement toward a more inclusive world.