Odisha’s Phula Soren, 17, Leads India’s Women’s Blind Cricket Team to Gold

Balasore: Phula Soren, a 17-year-old visually impaired girl from Salabani village in Odisha’s Balasore district, has become a symbol of resilience and determination, rising to become the vice-captain of the India Women’s Blind Cricket Team. Phula’s team recently brought home the gold medal at the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) World Games in Birmingham, marking a significant achievement for the young athlete and her community.

Phula’s journey has been marked by immense personal challenges. She lost her mother at a young age and was raised by her father, Tuna Soren, a wage laborer who spent most of his time working to provide for the family. Despite these hardships and her visual impairment, Phula’s determination to succeed remained strong. Her love for cricket began early, encouraged by her school’s Physical Education teacher, who recognized her potential and guided her toward pursuing the sport.

“I have played at both state and national levels, winning several ‘Player of the Match’ and ‘Player of the Series’ awards,” Phula shared emotionally. “Cricket has given me an identity. People now recognize me and my father, and I feel proud when he is known by my name.”

Her father, who raised her alone after her mother’s passing, expressed deep pride in his daughter’s accomplishments. “I’m overjoyed that my daughter has achieved so much despite her challenges. She excels in both academics and sports. She’s traveled to places I have only dreamed of,” Tuna said, adding, “I wish her mother were here to see her success.”

To support his daughter’s education and cricket aspirations, Tuna enrolled Phula in a blind school, despite limited resources. Cricket became a source of solace and motivation for Phula, helping her move past personal loss. She is now a student at Rama Devi University in Bhubaneswar, balancing her studies with her commitment to cricket.

Phula’s story has become an inspiration for many in her village and across Odisha. “Today, she has made the entire village proud,” said one of her neighbors. “She has achieved what we never thought was possible, representing Odisha and making a name for herself and her family.”

Phula’s achievement as a young tribal athlete from a modest background reflects the power of perseverance and the potential of youth when supported and encouraged. Her journey continues to inspire countless young people facing similar challenges across the country.