Indians strike gold after beating Australia

India’s blind women’s team celebrate their win over Australia in the final of IBSA World Games in Birmingham on Saturday. Pic/CABI

India's blind women's team outclassed Australia by nine wickets to win their maiden IBSA (International Blind Sports Federation) World Games gold in Birmingham on Saturday.

Opting to bat at Edgbaston, Australia managed just 114-8 in their allotted 20 overs. Deepika TC, Davis and Tudu claimed a wicket apiece for India. But G Neelappa's energetic fielding made the difference. She sent back three Aussie batswomen with some quicksilver fielding. Neelappa also took a fine catch at short mid-wicket off Tudu to dismiss opener Buakhao (11).

Deepika TC with her gold medal

At one stage, the Australians were in a sound position with 94-3 on the board after 16 overs. However, thanks to Neelappa's direct throw from mid-wicket, Australia lost in-form Lewis on 29. Then rain struck, and India had to get 42 in nine overs. Openers Deepika (11-ball 18 not out) and Neelappa (seven-ball 11) achieved the target in just 3.3 overs.

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"We are all delighted with this triumph, but I think more than me, my mother [Chittamma] and dad [Chikka Thimmappa] will feel very proud. They are farmers and work very hard for our family. I received a gold medal today [Saturday] for the first time ever. It felt good holding some gold in my hand. It's a special feeling and a great achievement," partially blind Deepika told mid-day from Birmingham.

Meanwhile, Neelappa admitted that she never dreamt of playing a crucial role against an Australian team.

"Australians are always tough to beat. Dishing out a match-winning performance against them gives me extra satisfaction," Neelappa remarked.