MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Networks India (SPN) partnered with the Cricket Association for the Blind of Maharashtra (CABM) as sponsors for the SPN Challenge Trophy 2018, a state level tournament for the blind. The tournament was held between 8-10 October at various venues including Islam Gymkhana, Parsi Gymkhana and Police Gymkhana in Mumbai.
The SPN Challenge Trophy 2018 saw the participation of six teams of young blind cricketers from Mumbai, Konkan, Vidarbha, Marathwada, Khandesh, and West Maharashtra. The tournament was inaugurated in the presence of Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar’s brother, Ajit Tendulkar. West Maharashtra won the tournament, defeating Marathwada in the final. The winners were awarded a trophy, certificates and prize money of Rs. 10000 while the runners-up were awarded Rs. 7000. All participating teams were given a consolation prize of Rs. 3000 each.
This sporting tournament is one of the many steps taken by Sony to support the differently-abled youth and empower them. The objective of SPNs social impact initiatives is to promote the spirit of ‘Ek India Happywala’.
SPN’s CSR head Rajkumar Bidawatka said: “Sony Pictures Networks is proud to partner with the Cricket Association for the Blind of Maharashtra for empowering India’s differently-abled sportspersons through its corporate social responsibility programme. Sports is a great medium of empowerment and we are pleased to provide a platform to the talented sportspersons to improve their lives and explore new opportunities that will help them build a better tomorrow. Our heartiest congratulations to the winning team and all the cricketers who participated in this tournament.”
CABM secretary Ramakant Satam said: “We are extremely glad to find a credible partner in Sony Pictures Networks India, who, like us, are striving towards the cause of empowering India’s youth and more importantly encouraging differently-abled sports in the country. These youths are winners in every aspect and we encourage more people to come forward to lend their support to further promote the cause of sports for the blind.”
