Colombo, Oct 1 (NationPress) Sri Lanka is set to co-host the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup – Cricket for the Blind, taking place from November 11 to 23. The tournament will kick off with the opening ceremony and the first five matches held in New Delhi (from Nov 11 to 13), followed by four matches in Bengaluru (from Nov 14 to 16), and will culminate with 15 matches in Colombo, Sri Lanka (from Nov 14 to 23), featuring the grand finale and closing ceremony on November 23.

During a press briefing, Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, the chairman of CABI, stated, “This partnership will usher in a historic era for women’s blind cricket and demonstrate how sports can transcend barriers, inspiring future generations. We express our gratitude to the Sports Minister and the Government of Sri Lanka for their support in co-hosting this transformative event. I earnestly invite Sri Lankans, businesses, and philanthropists to step forward as sponsors for the World Cup and support the teams with their presence during the matches.”

Sudesh Tharanga, President of the Sri Lanka Cricket Association of the Visually Handicapped, emphasized, “Our nation is honored to co-host the world’s first Blind Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup alongside India. This landmark event represents a crucial advancement in empowering women’s blind cricket and reinforces our commitment to inclusivity and opportunities for visually impaired athletes to showcase their skills.

“This tournament is not merely a competition; it signifies the dawn of a new chapter for blind cricket in Sri Lanka—one that aims to inspire future generations and advocate for equality in sports. We foresee this World Cup as a beacon of hope and a key milestone towards fostering a more inclusive sporting environment,” he added.

Member of Parliament and chairman of the Sri Lanka Council of Visually Handicapped Graduates, Sugath Wasantha De Silva, remarked, “Sports serves as a significant platform for personal development, and Blind Cricket exemplifies its potential to empower and change lives. I wish all participating teams the best. May this event shine a light on every player and motivate many others on this extraordinary journey.”

The Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sunil Kumara Gamage, alongside other dignitaries, unveiled the World Cup poster. He stated, “In Sri Lanka, cricket transcends mere sport — it is a unifying passion for us all. I am genuinely excited to be part of the Women’s T20 World Cup – Cricket for the Blind 2025. I wholeheartedly wish the best for all players and warmly welcome the teams from seven nations. Let this tournament celebrate talent, resilience, and the spirit of the game.”

The sports minister also launched the Sri Lanka Cricket Association for the Visually Handicapped website during this event.

Buse Gowda, President of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), delivered the Vote of Thanks. Office Bearers of the Sri Lanka Cricket Association for the Visually Handicapped and members of the World Cup Organising Committee were present.

The first Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind 2025 will assemble teams from Australia, England, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the USA, comprising 21 league matches, two semi-finals, and a spectacular finale.