Thane: The city witnessed an unconventional  cricket match on Christmas. Organised by the  Blind Welfare Association, the match aimed to  select visually challenged players from  eight divisions for the upcoming national-level matches in  Mumbai.

Arun Baraskar, chairman of the Blind Welfare Association, said the association has dedicated over a decade to providing a platform for visually challenged players.

These players have shown the courage to overpower their disability and exhibited remarkable determination and prowes comparable to anyone without disabilities,” he said.

A player, Rohit Bhargune (19), said a bit of recognition and support from the government and others could significantly impact their lives. Akshay Chaudhari, a 26-year-old player from Nagpur who has represented India internationally, said participating in tours was challenging because of the lack of facilities.
Baraskar, who is also visually impaired,  said there were many advancements in equipment since his  childhood days. “We would play using DIY bats and balls but  players now use an audible ball that makes a jingling sound   that helps the players locate its position. The stumps and  bails have metal armlets that produce an audio alert when  they are clean bowled. Overs are delivered underarm,”  Baraskar said.

Nashik player Abhijit Shirtode (27) said his family kept worrying about getting him a well-paying job.
The players  and Baraskar say the BCCI should step in and support blind  cricket

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/thane/visually-impaired-cricketers-seek-level-playing-field-thane/articleshow/106278004.cms