India's World Cup-winning captain 'overwhelmed' after receiving Arjuna Award, meets Mohammed Shami

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India's blind cricket team captain Illuri Ajay Kumar Reddy was one of the proud recipients of the Arjuna Award on Tuesday (January 9).

Illuri Ajay Kumar Reddy was conferred with the prestigious award from the President of India Smt. Draupadi Murmu at a specially organized function at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

Illuri Ajay Reddy was among the 26 sportspersons who were honoured with the Arjuna Award for outstanding performance in Sports and Games 2023. The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports last month announced the National Sports Awards 2023.

I am overwhelmed: Ajay Kumar Reddy

"I am overwhelmed with this recognition. I dedicate this award to my Parents and Family members for their support. I also would like to thank Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and all the players with whom I have played," the proud Indian captain Ajay Reddy said after the award.

Congratulating Arjuna awardee Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar, Chairman- Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) said, "It is an honour and proud moment for all the blind cricketers across the world. It is the good recognition for the hard work and dedication in taking Cricket for the Blind to the next level through various achievements by the Indian Men's Cricket Team for the blind under the leadership of Ajay Reddy. CABI is happy that cricket for the blind is getting the recognition with other major sports."

Following the award ceremony, Ajay Reddy and the CABI chairman met with India pacer Mohammed Shami, who was also felicitated at the event. The star Indian pacer is currently nursing an injury but is expected to return to action soon.

Ajay Kumar Reddy Record as India Captain

Reddy is currently working in the SBI regional office in Bangalore. The player has been playing for India for almost 15 years, since his making his debut in 2010. He has been part of winning two ODI World Cups, 3 T20 World Cups and Asia Cup.

Ajay is also India's captain since 2016. Under his captaincy, India has won 1 ODI World Cup, 2 T20 World Cups, and 1 Asia Cup title.

It is a massive moment for the inspiring stars who play the sport despite such physical difficulties. Ajay Reddy's moment of honour is not just for his own but for the entire fraternity of blind cricket.