Bhubaneswar: Odisha Women were crowned champions at the IndusInd Bank Women’s National Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2026, delivering a composed and authoritative performance to defeat Madhya Pradesh Women by 32 runs in the Final held at the Hi-Tech Cricket Stadium, Bhubaneswar. The tournament, organised under the aegis of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) with the support of IndusInd Bank, stood out as a celebration of resilience, skill, and inclusive sporting excellence.

Odisha set the tone with disciplined batting

After winning the toss, Odisha Women elected to bat first and displayed calm intent throughout their innings. Building partnerships and rotating the strike effectively, the team posted a competitive total of 173 for 4 in 20 overs. The batting effort reflected preparation, composure under pressure, and an understanding of match conditions, laying a strong foundation for the title clash.

Madhya Pradesh fight back but fall short

In response, Madhya Pradesh Women mounted a determined chase and showed fighting spirit with the bat. However, Odisha’s bowlers maintained disciplined lines and lengths, backed by alert fielding, to restrict the opposition to 141 for 5 in 20 overs. Despite moments of resistance, the required run rate proved challenging, and Odisha sealed a well-deserved victory by 32 runs.

A platform celebrating inclusive women’s sport

The tournament once again highlighted the growing stature of women’s cricket for the blind in India. Across matches, teams demonstrated high levels of competitiveness, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The event reinforced the importance of structured national platforms in empowering women athletes with visual impairments and providing them with opportunities to perform at elite levels.

Dignitaries grace the closing ceremony

The Final was followed by a dignified closing ceremony, where distinguished guests applauded the players and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting inclusive sports:

  • Shri Tirupati Panigrahi – Chairman, Hi-Tech Medical College & Hospital
  • Shri Rupesh Kumar Panigrahi – MLA, Paralakhemundi, Gajapati, Odisha & State Vice President, Biju Yuva Janta Dala
  • Shri Rishi Pathania – CSR Head, Jindal Foundation
  • Mr. Buse Gowda – President, Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI)
  • Mr. Shailender Yadav – Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI)
  • Major Dr. Kalpana Das – Chairperson, Women & Child Development
  • Shri Bhaskar Raito – Deputy Secretary, Social Security and Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities, Government of Odisha
  • Shri Vasanth Behera – Deputy Secretary, SSEPD, Government of Odisha
  • Shri M. D. Jafar Iqbal – President, Cricket Association for the Visually Impaired in Odisha

The guests lauded the athletes for their determination and performances, noting that such tournaments play a vital role in changing perceptions and strengthening inclusive sporting ecosystems across the country.

Organisers reaffirm commitment to inclusion

Organised by CABI with the backing of IndusInd Bank, the championship reaffirmed a shared commitment to empowering women with visual impairments through sport. The successful conduct of the tournament reflected growing institutional support, professional organisation, and increasing public recognition for blind cricket in India.

Conclusion

Odisha Women’s triumph at the IndusInd Bank Women’s National Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2026 stands as a testament to preparation, teamwork, and belief. Beyond the result, the tournament reinforced the power of sport as a platform for inclusion, confidence, and opportunity, marking another important milestone in the journey of women’s cricket for the blind in India.