KARACHI: The South African Blind Cricketers are in Pakistan for a bilateral Blind Cricket Series, that includes three One Day International (ODI), and three T20 International matches from 26 February – 09 March 2022.

The ODI series concluded earlier this week, which Pakistan Blind Cricketers won by a 3-0 margin.

The hosts have already taken the lead in the T20 series after their 10-wicket victory over their South African counterparts today.

After the ODI whitewash, the SA team had to work even harder going into the T20 International matches.

Skipper, Buhle Bhidla, won the toss and elected to bat first with his side ending the innings on 182/4. However, Pakistan Blind cricketers continued their form as they raced to the target in less than 12 overs without losing a single wicket.

SA Blind Cricketers’ captain, Isaac Bidla, noted how the overall tour has shown the absence of international competition exposure during COVID-19.

“Pakistan Blind Cricketers are in an entirely different league. In addition to their strong development, they have managed to professionalise blind cricket,” said Bidla.

Head Coach, Michael Da Silva said; “This has been a learning experience and our players have shown improvement with every game.”

“Our players have been resilient, pushing their Pakistan counterparts to the limits. We hope for better results going into the T20s.”

“We have a lot of potential with our team, and I believe with our fighting spirit, we’ll be able to go back home to work even harder,” said da Silva.

SA BLIND CRICKETERS T20 SCHEDULE

05 Mar: 1st T20I – Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad.

07 Mar: 2nd T20I – Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad.

08 Mar: 3rd T20I – Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad.

All matches are streamed live on the Pakistan Blind Cricket Council Official YouTube page.

SA BLIND CRICKETERS SQUAD V PAKISTAN BLIND CRICKETERS

Doctor Malinga (Lions), Johan Schroeder (Lions), Sphelele Atwell Khalala (Kwazulu-Natal), Sibusiso Ciryll Mdhlalose (Lions), Sergil January (Western Province), Mathula Dlamini (Kwazulu-Natal), Buhle Bhidla (Lions), Fredrich Boer (Boland), Anathi Xelelo (Kwazulu-Natal), Jontey Kotzs (Northerns), Asanda Isaac Bidla (Lions), Reme` Kampher (Boland), Karabo Phetla (Northerns), Shepherd Mangxaba (Boland), David Landry (Free State), Lwando Bhidla (Lions), Thebza Moloisane (Kwazulu-Natal), Asher Hatting (Western Province).

MANAGEMENT

Manny Mothilal (Treasurer), Michael Da Silva (Head Coach), Frederic Schoeman (Assistant Coach), Ndumiso Nyawose (Co-Ordinator).