Gurugram, March 15, 2024 – In an exhilarating display of sportsmanship and skill, the Indian Men’s Blind Cricket Team clinched victory in the Samarth Championship, sweeping the International Bilateral Blind Men’s T20 Cricket Series against Sri Lanka. This monumental series, part of the ‘Samarth by Hyundai’ initiative, was organized to foster inclusion and empower people with disabilities.
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), in collaboration with its Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF), ‘Cricket Association for the Blind in India’, and ‘Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled’, orchestrated the five-match series from March 11th to 15th, 2024, at Karnail Singh Stadium in New Delhi. The championship aimed not only to entertain but to enlighten, pushing the envelope for societal inclusivity and support for the differently-abled.
The series was a testament to the prowess of the Indian team, which dominated all five matches, showcasing exceptional talent in batting, bowling, and fielding. Their performance underscored the championship’s broader goal of raising awareness and creating a more inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.
At the heart of the event was Hyundai Motor India’s commitment to ‘Progress for Humanity’. Un Soo Kim, MD & CEO of Hyundai Motor India Limited, reflected on the initiative’s success, stating, “Through the Samarth initiative, we strive to build a more inclusive society. This cricket series is a testament to our dedication towards empowering people with disabilities, leveraging cricket’s unifying power to foster societal equality.”
The closing ceremony was adorned by the presence of cricket luminaries Praveen Kumar and Madan Lal Sharma, who lent their support and celebrated the triumphs of the Indian team.
The ‘Samarth’ initiative, launched in November 2023, represents Hyundai’s pioneering step towards inclusive mobility. By making digital and physical spaces more accessible and introducing innovative solutions like Swivel Seats, Hyundai is leading the automotive industry in support of people with disabilities.
In partnership with Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, HMIF is committed to the physical and social development of the visually impaired. This includes supporting visually impaired cricketers with training camps and providing platforms for showcasing their talent on an international stage.
This championship not only celebrated cricket but also the spirit of inclusivity and empowerment. It served as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary potential within every individual, regardless of physical limitations.
