Blind Women’s Teams from India and Pakistan Share Heartwarming Handshake, Bridging Cracks in Tense Rivalry
In a poignant display of unity amid strained bilateral relations, the blind women’s cricket teams of India and Pakistan exchanged warm handshakes following their latest encounter, underscoring the enduring spirit of the game.
India’s visually impaired female cricketers delivered a dominant eight-wicket triumph against Pakistan during the Women’s T20 World Cup for the blind in Colombo on Sunday, capping off their performance with gestures of mutual admiration that transcended off-field frictions.
The contest unfolded at the Katunayake BOI Grounds, where India extended their winning streak to five matches. Yet, it was the aftermath that captured global attention: players from both sides formed a line for cordial handshakes, rode together on a shuttle bus to the stadium, and traded words of praise—behaviors rarely seen in contemporary India-Pakistan clashes, where such courtesies have often been withheld.
Pakistan’s batting lineup faltered early, slumping to 23 for four wickets lost. A resilient stand between Mehreen Ali, who scored 66 runs, and Bushra Ashraf, contributing 44, offered some stability. However, India’s sharp fielding, which led to seven run-outs, curtailed the innings at 135 all out.
The Indian reply was swift and assured. Skipper Deepika TC laid a solid foundation with 45 runs, but it was Anekha Devi’s unbeaten 64 that propelled the team to victory at 136 for two wickets in a mere 10 overs. This emphatic result confirmed India’s place in the semifinals, with Anekha Devi rightfully claiming the Player of the Match award for her explosive contribution.
Although the pre-match toss proceeded without a handshake—mirroring the diplomatic chill that has shadowed recent senior-level fixtures—the conclusion painted a more harmonious picture. The captains extended congratulations on the pitch, and the squads commuted jointly, consistently recognizing each other’s tenacity.
Pakistan’s leader, Nimra Rafique, lauded India’s execution, while Deepika TC praised her rivals’ determination. With media interactions barred for both squads, the circulating photographs of their camaraderie spoke volumes about unspoken solidarity.
Blind cricket introduces distinct adaptations: a white plastic ball containing ball bearings enables auditory tracking, and lineups require a minimum of four fully blind athletes, three with vision limited to two meters, and four partially sighted players discerning up to six meters.
Competing nations also include Australia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the United States, with the championship final set for the following Sunday in Colombo. As elite-level rivalries grapple with politicized protocols, these blind women’s outfits have quietly reaffirmed the essence of fair play and respect.