DCCI to host India's first-ever T20 bilateral series against Sri Lanka

ANI April 7, 2025 122 views

The Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) is set to host a groundbreaking T20 cricket series between India and Sri Lanka for physically disabled athletes. This pioneering tournament will take place in Bangalore from April 29 to May 5, 2025, featuring standing cricketers from both nations. The series represents a significant milestone in adaptive sports, promoting inclusivity and recognizing the extraordinary talents of differently-abled athletes. By celebrating three retiring legendary players and showcasing 18 talented Team India members, the tournament symbolizes resilience, unity, and the transformative power of sports.

"We aim to highlight the remarkable abilities of athletes with disabilities" - Ravi Chauhan, DCCI General Secretary
New Delhi, April 6: Following India's stellar performance in the recently concluded Champions Trophy, the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI), in strategic collaboration with Wilspoke Sports and Entertainment (WSE), announced the inaugural India vs Sri Lanka Physical Disability (Standing) T20 Cricket Series on Sunday.

Key Points

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Historic bilateral series showcasing physically disabled standing cricketers

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DCCI partners with Wilspoke Sports for landmark tournament

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Series honors three retiring legendary players

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Team India features 18 athletes from diverse states

This historic and inspiring bilateral series will be held in Bangalore from April 29 to May 5, 2025, showcasingexceptional talent, resilience, and sportsmanship from differently-abled (standing) cricketers of both nations, as per a press release from DCCI.

This landmark event is a major stride forward for adaptive cricket, uniting the top physically disabled (standing) athletes from India and Sri Lanka. The series not only celebrates the triumph of spirit but also reinforces the message of inclusivity and equal opportunity in competitive sports.

DCCI General Secretary, Ravi Chauhan, shared his thoughts: "We are honoured to launch this historic bilateral series in partnership with Wilspoke Sports and Entertainment. By uniting top cricketers from India and Sri Lanka, we aim to not only strengthen cross-border sporting relations but also to highlight the remarkable abilities of athletes with disabilities. Our vision is to foster an inclusive cricketing environment that offers equal opportunities for all."

A Milestone for Adaptive Cricket

Supported by corporate sponsors, cricketing authorities, and enthusiastic fans, the series aspires to set anew benchmark in adaptive sports. It reflects the growing momentum towards mainstream recognition ofdifferently-abled athletes and their rightful place in the world of cricket.

In a special gesture, the DCCI has planned a grand farewell for three legendary players: Tushar Paul,Gurudas Raut and Ravindra Jagdale, who have announced their retirement. These stalwarts have madesignificant contributions to Indian adaptive cricket, and their farewell during this prestigious series will be both emotional and well-deserved. The India vs Sri Lanka Physical Disability (Standing) T20 Cricket Series is more than a tournament; it is a celebration of resilience, unity, and the unyielding human spirit.

Team India Squad (18-Member):1. Ravindra Sante - (Captain) - Mumbai2. Yogendra Badoriya - Madhya Pradesh3. Akash Patil - Mumbai4. Shiv Shankara - Karnataka5. Majid Magray - Jammu & Kashmir6. Adil Nansola - Gujarat7. Satish Kirar - Rajasthan8. Raju Kannur - Karnataka9. Vikram Jeet - Chandigarh10. Varushant Kunjal - Maharashtra11. Narendra Mangure - (Vice Captain) - Karnataka12. Nikhil Manhas - Jammu & Kashmir13. Imran Khan - Vidarbha14. Wasim Iqbal - Jammu & Kashmir15. Sadik - Delhi16. Tushar Paul - West Bengal (Farewell Series - Retired)17. Gurudas Raut - Vidarbha (Farewell Series - Retired)18. Ravindra Jagdale - Maharashtra (Farewell Series - Retired).

Reader Comments

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Priya K.
This is such an inspiring initiative! 🎉 Adaptive sports deserve way more recognition. Can't wait to watch these talented athletes showcase their skills. Bangalore better come out in full support!
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Amit S.
While I fully support this event, I wish the organizers would consider streaming it online. Many fans across India would love to watch but can't travel to Bangalore. Accessibility should include digital access too.
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Rahul M.
Emotional to see Tushar Paul, Gurudas Raut and Ravindra Jagdale getting their farewell. These legends paved the way for adaptive cricket in India. Hope the young players carry forward their legacy!
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Sanjana P.
Finally! Adaptive cricket getting the platform it deserves. The squad looks strong - especially excited to see Majid Magray from J&K. Hope this leads to more international matches in the future 🤞
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Vikram J.
As someone who's followed adaptive cricket for years, this is a dream come true. The DCCI and WSE deserve huge credit for making this happen. Let's make sure the stadium is packed for every match!
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Neha T.
The message of inclusivity here is so powerful. My younger brother has a physical disability and loves cricket - seeing events like this gives him hope that he could play competitively too ❤️

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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