Deepika TC, the captain of India’s blind women’s cricket team, led her team to victory in the recent inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup

MARIA FERNANDES | NT

Deepika TC’s extraordinary journey has been shaped by limited resources and even fewer opportunities. Born in the quiet village of Karithimmannahalli in Tumkur, she grew up in a modest household. Her father worked as a farmer while her mother managed the home, instilling in her values of discipline, perseverance, and resilience.

She discovered her passion for cricket, while at the Ranga Rao Memorial School for Differently-Abled (RMSD), a discovery that would change her life. In 2017 under the mentorship of her physical training teacher, Mohan Kumar, she began training in the sport. Her first competitive match in January 2018 marked a defining moment. With an impressive performance of five wickets and 26 runs, she earned the Best All-Rounder title. 

But her initial journey was marked with self-doubt and a lack of awareness about blind cricket which often kept her awake. “Despite my visual impairment, watching others succeed in cricket gave me the courage to believe I could do it too,” she shares. With continuous guidance, especially from her mentor, these hurdles gradually turned into stepping stones.

Training in cricket for visually-impaired required adapting to a completely different sensory experience. Instead of relying on sight, players depend on the sound of the ball, sharpening their listening and concentration skills. “When I first started batting, it felt very different from what I had imagined. The ball makes a rattling sound and I had to train myself to listen carefully and time my strokes,” she recalls. Through consistent effort, her skills flourished and her confidence grew. “Mohan, guided me patiently, he taught me to focus on the sweep shot, which is the most effective stroke in blind cricket as it increases the chance of connecting with the ball,” she adds. Practicing endlessly, repeating drills where she listened to the ball’s sound and judged its bounce, she slowly learned to swing with confidence.  

Support systems played a crucial role in her success. Organisations like Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled provided opportunities, exposure and a platform for growth, helping her reach the national level and eventually lead the team. 

Life as a visually impaired athlete presents challenges both on and off the field and Deepika experienced many of them firsthand. “There were many moments of doubt. I wanted to give up, especially when resources were scarce or when people doubted our abilities,” she shares. But her love for the sport and the support of her teammates kept her moving ahead, turning every setback into a stepping stone for greater determination.

Deepika’s journey is marked by several proud milestones and speaking about them she says, “Captaining the team and representing India at the Blind Cricket World Cup are moments that fill me with immense pride. Winning matches against strong opponents and seeing the joy on my teammates’ faces are memories I will always cherish.”

Cricket has transformed Deepika’s life, building confidence, nurturing leadership and shaping a strong sense of identity. Today, her perspective is defined not by limitations but by possibilities. “Cricket has changed me. It has given me confidence, leadership skills and a sense of identity. Today, I see myself not just as a visually impaired person but as an athlete, a leader and someone who can inspire others,” she says.

Looking ahead, she hopes to see meaningful changes in sports for athletes with disabilities. Her message to young people facing challenges is simple, “Never let challenges decide your limits. Disabilities or obstacles are just part of the journey, your determination and passion can take you far. Believe in yourself and keep pushing forward.” Her aspiration includes promoting blind cricket across India and creating opportunities for others with visual impairments, ensuring that more individuals can dream big and achieve their goals.