Tompaki Durga Rao has been appointed captain of the Indian men's blind cricket team.
The Cricket Association for the Blind in India, known as CABI, made the decision.
He comes from Kopparavalasa village in Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh.
He will lead a 17-member squad at the Blind Cricket Asia Cup in Dhaka. The tournament runs from November 15 to 20.
Graphic: News Anek, from the facts in this report
His appointment has brought celebrations in his home village.
His journey has not been easy. Durga Rao was born on November 11, 1996, into a poor farming family.
He lost his father when he was four. At six, a wooden stick hit his right eye, and the damage could not be reversed.
Key points
- Tompaki Durga Rao, from Vizianagaram district, has been named captain of India's men's blind cricket team.
- He will lead a 17-member squad at the Blind Cricket Asia Cup in Dhaka, from November 15 to 20.
- He lost his vision after a childhood injury and has played for India for over 12 years.
- He was part of winning squads at several world and continental events, and won silver at the IBSA World Games 2023.
How did he find his way into cricket?
He lost his vision in stages, and studying in a regular school became hard.
He joined a blind school in Bobbili and completed his secondary education there. Later he studied in Hyderabad.
At first, he focused only on his studies. A senior once asked him to come to the ground and just watch.
He went, and he says that moment changed his life.
Seniors like Ajay Kumar Reddy, Prakash and Venkatesh inspired him to dream bigger.
He first played for his state, then for India.
He made his international debut against Pakistan at the 4th ODI World Cup for the Blind in 2014.
He is known for disciplined batting, with a top score of 176.
What does this mean for blind cricket in India?
Durga Rao says blind cricket was very tough in the beginning. There were no proper facilities, structure or recognition.
He credits CABI for better tournaments, more visibility and stronger support.
He still hopes more state governments will provide job security for players.
That would help many disabled people choose sports without fear. It could also help them become financially independent.
What happens next for the team?
The squad has completed an intensive training and assessment camp.
Durga Rao says the players are motivated to bring home continental glory. The Asia Cup begins on November 15.
He has also been named captain before, including for the 4th Blind T20 World Cup.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised his all-round performances.
For him, cricket has brought confidence, respect and the honour of representing his country.
