Mumbai, Dec 17 (NationPress) Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar showered accolades on the Indian women’s blind cricket team on Wednesday, who recently triumphed as T20 Blind Cricket World Cup champions. He emphasized that their grit and determination have transformed the way we perceive the game.

The Indian women’s blind cricket team etched their name in history by clinching the inaugural Blind Women’s T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, overcoming Nepal by seven wickets in the final match. The decisive game at the P Sara Oval in Colombo saw India restricting Nepal to 114/5 before chasing down the target with three wickets remaining in just 12.1 overs.

On Wednesday, the team had a memorable encounter with Sachin Tendulkar at the MIG Club in Mumbai.

Subsequently, Tendulkar took to Instagram to celebrate the remarkable achievement of these young women who made India proud.

“While many possess eyesight, only a select few hold true vision. I was fortunate to meet these extraordinary young visually impaired women who have made India proud,” Tendulkar remarked in his Instagram story.

“Their courage, discipline, and belief stand as proof that this sport is to be felt and lived, and that no obstacle should hinder anyone from claiming it as their own. Their grit and determination have reshaped our perception of the game. They have made history on a global scale and inspired the next generation to realize that no dream is unattainable,” he expressed in his post.

“Congratulations to the entire team and support staff for winning the first-ever T20 Women’s World Cup for the visually impaired,” he concluded.

Previously, Tendulkar praised the players' resolve, noting that they had surmounted significant challenges to achieve their dreams and secure the World Cup. He recognized that their hard work and perseverance would be honored long after the tournament. He also acknowledged the vital support provided by the players’ families, especially their parents, who offered encouragement and freedom instead of limitations, allowing the athletes to excel in the sport.

Captain of the Indian women’s blind cricket team, Deepika TC, shared her feelings, stating, “Meeting Sachin Sir was like a dream come true. We have always played with passion and belief, but receiving words of encouragement from him has profoundly touched our hearts. This moment will remain with us for life and inspire us to strive harder and elevate Indian cricket to new heights.”

Sachin offered autographs to all the players and took pictures with them. He was also gifted an autographed bat by the team.

After the meeting, Dr. G.K. Mahantesh, President of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), stated, “Sachin Tendulkar meeting our World Cup-winning women’s team is a moment we will treasure forever. His support means more than words can convey for our players. When a legend of his caliber acknowledges their journey and offers his backing, it instills immense confidence, not only in this team but throughout the entire blind cricket community in India.”