Has India’s Squad Been Announced for the Historic Mixed Disability IT20 Series in England?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Inclusive representation in sports through the mixed disability squad.
- Historic matches scheduled alongside mainstream cricket events.
- National training camp focused on physical fitness and team synergy.
- Support from DCCI for athletes with diverse disabilities.
- Symbol of pride for Indian cricketers to compete internationally.
New Delhi, May 29 (NationPress) The Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) has unveiled the men's mixed disability squad for the groundbreaking seven-match International T20 series against England, scheduled to occur at top venues in England throughout June and July.
This series, in collaboration with the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), signifies a monumental debut for India’s pan-disability cricket team on the global platform. The team comprises athletes from various backgrounds, including physical, hearing, and intellectual disabilities, embodying India’s commitment to inclusive sports.
Ravindra Gopinath Sante will lead as captain, with Virendra Singh serving as vice-captain.
In an innovative approach, selected matches will coincide as double-headers with significant events in England’s mainstream cricket schedule. Notably, the sixth T20I on July 1 in Bristol will take place alongside the England Women vs India Women match.
Head coach Rohit Jhalani expressed, "This team competes with the same intensity as any elite squad. Their focus and passion are unparalleled — they are prepared for the international stage."
Coach Santosh Kumar Rai (Deaf Team) remarked, "Bringing deaf athletes together with other disability categories is a significant milestone. The teamwork and discipline of this squad will resonate globally."
A national training camp is set for Jaipur from June 7–14, emphasizing physical fitness, strategy, and team cohesion in anticipation of the England tour.
Ravikant Chauhan, general secretary of DCCI, stated, "This series aims to redefine possibilities. Competing at Lord’s — the Home of Cricket — is a dream for every cricketer. For our players, it symbolizes history and pride. We hope the BCCI supports our team similarly to how the ECB backs their pan-disability team."
Sumit Jain, vice-president of DCCI, added, "This squad embodies the aspirations of millions. Their journey represents courage, purpose, and vision. We are confident they will bring pride to India."
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