Dubai: The Indian blind cricket team, which won the World Cup final against Pakistan in Sharjah on Saturday, were literally on the top of the world next day. The Ajay Reddy-led team visited Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower in Dubai, on Sunday morning.
Speaking over telephone from the 126th floor, captain Reddy said: “we barely can see anything down. Very excited to be on his floor”.
“The tower has more than 160 floors but we are given permission to reach up to this floor and we have no words to express our excitement”.
“Before the matches, the team members had decided not to visit any mall or places in Dubai and this was our first outing after winning the final”, Reddy added.
The victorious Indian blind team is scheduled to return to India on Monday evening and there are more celebrations lined up in Delhi and other cities of nation next week.
Meanwhile, the captain and team has received congratulatory messages from India’ chief selector M.S.K. Prasad as well. Interestingly, both Prasad and Reddy hail from Guntur (Andhra Pradesh).
Speaking from South Africa, Prasad who is travelling with the Indian senior team, said: “I know Ajay Reddy for the past four years. We have sponsored him for his previous World Cup. when Dr Gangaraju was secretary of Andhra Cricket Association and I was the director, we have sponsored many blind players and blind tournaments as part of our social responsibility.”
“I know Mahantesh and David who were instrumental in developing blind cricket in India. I wholeheartedly congratulate Indian Blind team and Ajay Reddy and Indian Blind Cricket Association for winning the World Cup”.
Meanwhile, cricketing icon Sachin Tendulkar and several Bollywood celebrities took to the social media to congratulate the team. Tendulkar wrote: “Jahan chah wahan raah ... As they rightly say, Determination will get you through everything. A big salute to our entire team. Hearty congratulations on winning the #BlindCricketWorldCup. #TeamIndia”
“Congratulations India blind cricket team for beating Pakistan and becoming World Champions! So proud of you all! Another victory for India cricket! You have made us all proud,” said Amitabh Bachchan.
“Congratulations team India! The whole nation is extremely proud and inspired! Well played!,” tweeted Anil Kapoor.
