Published: Feb 08, 2017, 06:58 PM (IST)
Edited: Feb 08, 2017, 06:58 PM (IST)
The Cricket World Cup for the Blind is underway in India. In last few days, it has unearthed some heart-warming stories. One such story, which with it brings lot of positivity and warmth, recently came to the fore. It is the story of the McCaskills — Donna and her two sons, Deacan Dunn (15) and Marquele McCaskill (18). All three members of the family are in India with the BlindCaps (name given to the New Zealand blind cricket team). They are a part of the team which is competing in the World Cup.
Donna, who represented New Zealand at the 2006 World Cup, looks after other members of the team when not playing. “I prepare drinks for my teammates. I also distribute food packets and help them to wash their hands and act as a physiotherapist when needed,” she told mid-day in an exclusive chat. Donna never got married and devoted all her life to the BlindCaps. At present, besides serving the team in India at the ongoing tournament, she is president of the New Zealand Blind Cricket Association and also works for the Blind Foundation in Parnell, Auckland.
Not one to be bogged down by challenges, Donna in fact loves to take them head on. A few years ago, she had to plead her case after few countries protested against women being a part of the men’s blind team. She fought for her rights and emerged victorious. “I love challenges and blindness is nowhere a barrier,” she told mid-day.
At the moment, she is cherishing the fact that she is in India for the World Cup with her sons to accompany her. “My younger son (Deacan) is in school, while Marquele is a University student. It’s exciting to play with them,” she said.
