Cricket Association for the Blind in India on Thursday announced the captains for the Indian Blind Cricket teams (both men and women) that will represent the country in the upcoming International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) World Games 2023, Birmingham. Ajay Kumar Reddy Illuri (B2 Category) has been named as the captain of the men’s cricket team while Venkateswara Rao Dunna (B2 Category) has been appointed as his deputy for the IBSA World Games 2023 in Birmingham. Both players are from Andhra Pradesh.
Meanwhile, Varsha Umapathi (B1 Category) who hails from Karnataka will lead the women’s cricket team. Phula Saren (B3 Category) from Odisha has been appointed as the vice-captain of the squad. Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) also unveiled jerseys for both teams ahead of their debut in IBSA World Games 2023 in Birmingham. Games are scheduled to be held from August 18 to August 27 and blind cricket has been included in the World Games for the first time.
Varsha U Captain of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the Blind expressed her gratitude to CABI for giving her the opportunity to lead the team in the historic championship. Ajay Kumar Reddy Captain of the Indian Men’s Cricket Team for the Blind spoke on the preparation for the tournament and how the team is excited to play competitive cricket at the IBSA World Games. Schedule for IBSA World Games 2023, Birmingham: On August 14, the Indian men’s team will arrive in Birmingham with a mission to make the nation proud.
A day later, on August 15, the team along with their officials, will come together to celebrate India’s Independence Day.
The Indian Men’s Team is geared up to play a practice match on the same day Indian Women’s Team arrives for IBSA World Games 2023, Birmingham. On August 17, the spotlight will shine on the Indian women’s team as they arrive at the tournament’s venue.