Team India have successfully defended the Blind Cricket T20 World Cup by defeating Pakistan by 9 wickets in a dominating performance at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore.
The second edition of the T20 World Cup for blind saw India repeat history — the men in blue had defeated Pakistan in the final of the first edition in 2012 as well.
Batting first Pakistan — who made 309 in the semi-final against England — were off to a flying start before Indian bowlers pulled things back to 197 for 9 in 20 overs. Facing a stiff target of 198, India never looked in trouble during the chase, with Prakash Jayaramaiah and Ajay Kumar Reddy providing a flying start. After Ajay’s unfortunate run-out, Prakash and (fully blind player) Ketan Bhai Patel ensured there were no hiccups. Ketan had to retire hurt after a cameo but it was still enough for India to coast to their second world title, with two overs to spare.
Incidentally, this was Pakistan’s first defeat in the tournament — they had won all their 10 previous matches.
Man of the series Badar Munir was the top-scorer for Pakistan. Ketan Patel and Jaffar Iqbal were the pick of Indian bowlers, grabbing two wickets each after conceding 29 and 33 runs respectively.
Opening batsman Prakash won the Man of the Match award for his splendid performance — remaining unbeaten on 99 at the end.