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Key Points

India's pan-disability cricket team is set to make history in its international debut against England in a seven-match IT20 series. Announced by the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India, this landmark series highlights the importance of inclusivity in sports. Ravindra Gopinath Sante, appointed captain, will lead a diverse lineup united across physical, hearing, and intellectual disabilities. Their intensity and passion reflect India’s commitment to redefining possibilities on the global stage.

Key Points: India Announces Mixed Disability Squad for Historic England Series

  • Ravindra Gopinath Sante leads Indian team
  • Series debuts in partnership with ECB
  • Matches include double-headers with major fixtures
  • Unity across disability categories
3 min read

India squad announced for historic Mixed Disability IT20 series in England

India’s pan-disability cricket team debut set for historic T20 series in England, marking a new era.

"This team competes with the intensity of any elite squad. - Rohit Jhalani"

New Delhi, May 29

Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) announced the men's mixed disability squad for the landmark seven-match International T20 series against England, set to take place at premier venues across England in June and July.

This series, in partnership with the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), marks a historic debut for India's pan-disability cricket team on the international stage. Bringing together players from physical, hearing, and intellectual disability backgrounds, this team reflects India's inclusive sporting spirit.

Ravindra Gopinath Sante has been appointed captain with Virendra Singh being his deputy.

In a progressive move, select matches will be played as double-headers alongside key fixtures in England's mainstream cricket calendar. The sixth T20I on July 1 in Bristol will share the stage with the England Women vs India Women.

Rohit Jhalani, head coach said, "This team competes with the intensity of any elite squad. Their focus and passion are unmatched -- they're ready for the international arena."

Santosh Kumar Rai, coach (Deaf Team) added, "Integrating deaf athletes with other disability categories is a milestone. This team's unity and discipline will leave a global mark."

A national training camp will be held in Jaipur from June 7-14, focusing on physical fitness, strategy, and team synergy in preparation for the England tour.

"This series is about redefining possibilities. Playing at Lord's - the Home of Cricket - is a dream for any cricketer. For our players, it's a symbol of history and pride. We hope the BCCI extends its support to our team, just as the ECB supports their pan-disability squad," Ravikant Chauhan, general secretary, DCCI said.

Sumit Jain, vice-president, DCCI added, "This squad represents the hopes of millions. Their journey is about courage, purpose, and vision. We are confident they will make India proud."

Squad: Ravindra Gopinath Sante (Captain) (PD), Vikrant Ravindra Keni (PD), Radhika Prasad (PD), Rajesh Irappa Kannur (PD), Yogendra Singh (Wicket-Keeper), Narendra Mangore (PD), Sai Akash (Deaf), Umar Ashraf (Deaf), Virendra Singh (Vice-Captain) (Deaf), Sanju Sharma (Deaf), Abhishek Singh (Deaf), Vivek Kumar (Deaf), Vikas Ganeshkumar (ID), Praveen Nailwal (ID), Rishabh Jain (ID), Tarun (ID).

Reserves: Majid Magray (PD), Kuldeep Singh (Deaf), Krishna Gowda (Deaf), Jithendra Nagaraju (PD).

Schedule (IST)

June 21 - 1st IT20 - Taunton, 6:30 PM

June 23 - 2nd IT20 - Wormsley, 5:00 PM

June 25 - 3rd IT20 - Lord's, 3:30 PM

June 27 - 4th IT20 - Worcester, 5:00 PM

June 29 - 5th IT20 - Worcester, 2:30 PM

July 1 - 6th IT20 - Bristol, 2:00 PM

July 3 - 7th IT20 - Bristol, 6:30 PM

- IANS

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Reader Comments

A
Ankit P.
This is such a proud moment for Indian cricket! 🏏 Playing at Lord's is a dream for any cricketer, and our differently-abled athletes are making history. Hope they get the same recognition as our mainstream team. Jai Hind!
P
Priya M.
Finally, disability cricket getting the platform it deserves! The double-header idea is brilliant - will help more people discover these amazing players. Hope DD Sports or Star Sports broadcasts this series live.
R
Rahul K.
While this is a great initiative, I wish BCCI would support them more financially. ECB is fully backing their team, but our players still struggle for basic facilities. Hope this series changes things.
S
Shweta R.
The inclusion of deaf players with other disabilities is truly inspiring! 👏 This team represents the real spirit of 'where there's a will, there's a way'. Can't wait to see them play at the Mecca of Cricket!
V
Vikram S.
As someone who's followed disability cricket for years, this is massive! But why no matches in India first? Our players deserve home support too. Hope DCCI organizes something here after England tour.
N
Neha T.
The determination of these athletes puts us all to shame. While we complain about small things, they're breaking barriers with smiles! Special shoutout to coach Santosh Kumar Rai - integrating deaf players is revolutionary.
A
Arjun D.
Playing at Lord's! Goosebumps moment for sure. Hope someone records the team's reaction when they walk through the Long Room. This is bigger

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