India’s Blind Women Cricketers Still Wait For Promised House Sites And Jobs A Year After World Cup Win

The Hindu•Published: Oct 6, 2026 01:58 PM IST

Nearly a year after winning the inaugural Women's T20 World Cup for the Blind, members of the Indian national team report that they are still struggling with a lack of government jobs, housing sites, and adequate training facilities. Captain Deepika T.C. and her teammates noted that despite receiving public praise following their historic victory, official follow-through on promised support has been minimal.

Unfulfilled Official Promises: Captain Deepika T.C. and teammate Pangi Karuna Kumari remain unassisted regarding promised government housing sites and stable employment opportunities.
Grassroots Training Barriers: Players from rural backgrounds struggle with limited access to local playgrounds, fitness guidance, and funding for professional coaching in major cities.
Corporate CSR Assistance: Hindustan Shipyard Limited recently stepped in to provide ₹50,000 to each player through its corporate social responsibility program ahead of an upcoming series against Nepal.

The Context & Background

The team, selected and managed by the Cricket Association for the Blind in India, consists of players aged 16 to 28 who largely hail from economically disadvantaged rural families. Despite overcoming severe visual impairments and financial hurdles to bring home global glory, the athletes continue to face systemic neglect in their everyday lives.

Why it matters:This situation highlights the stark disparity between public adulation for victorious disabled athletes and the systemic neglect they face afterward. It underscores the urgent need for institutional accountability and robust support systems to ensure that India's marginalized sports champions receive sustainable livelihoods and recognition.

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