Bringing glory to Jammu and Kashmir and North India, 20-year-old Anekha Devi from Machhedi (Bajohi), tehsil Lohi Malhar, Kathua district, has earned a historic place in the Indian squad for the inaugural Women’s T20 Blind Cricket World Cup, scheduled between November 11 and 25.
Out of 56 players shortlisted through a nationwide talent hunt, the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) finalized a 16-member team. Anekha, an all-rounder, stands out as the only player selected from North India, making her achievement even more inspiring.
Expressing her joy, Anekha said, “It’s a really happy moment for me and my family to be part of the Indian team in the maiden Women’s Blind Cricket World Cup. It’s like a dream come true.”
Her journey is one of resilience and determination. Born with B2-level visual impairment, she completed her early education in her village, later moving to Jammu and then Delhi, where she now pursues a Bachelor of Arts at Delhi University.
From Judo Champion to Cricket Star
Interestingly, cricket wasn’t her first choice. Anekha was a five-time national-level Judo champion, bagging gold medals on each occasion. Her love for cricket began casually when she accompanied her uncle, Ajay Kumar (General Secretary, Cricket Association for Blind J&K), to matches. Recognizing her potential, he gave her initial cricket training.
Due to the absence of a women’s blind cricket team in Jammu and Kashmir, she shifted to Delhi, where she played for the Delhi Blind Women’s Cricket Team. Within a year, she impressed selectors with her performance at state and national tournaments.
Family’s Strength and Support
Despite financial struggles—her father works as a daily wager in the Power Development Department, and her mother is a homemaker—Anekha’s family always supported her passion. As the eldest of four siblings, she hopes to pave the way for other visually impaired girls in J&K.
She said, “Every girl cannot go far from home to fulfill her dreams. My aim is to encourage young girls in J&K to take up blind cricket and eventually form our own women’s team.”
Voices of Pride and Support
Sports administrator Ranjeet Kalra praised her selection, highlighting the need for infrastructure, coaching, and financial support for specially-abled athletes.
Her uncle Ajay Kumar added, “This achievement is not just for Jammu and Kashmir but for the entire North India. Anekha had the talent—she just needed a platform.”
Local MLA Dr. Rameshwar Singh also expressed pride, calling her success “a proud moment for the people of Bani and the entire Union Territory.” He assured that financial assistance would be extended to her and promised a grand reception upon her return.
Anekha Devi’s story is not just about cricket—it’s about perseverance, determination, and breaking barriers. As she steps onto the world stage, she carries the dreams of many visually impaired girls from rural India, proving that no limitation can dim the light of true talent.
