Mumbai, Dec 18 (NationPress) Despite a remarkable performance by GS Shiva Shankara, India Senior's efforts were in vain as India A managed to secure a victory in the three-match Physical Disability T20 series, concluding at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday.

In the final match of the series, India A, after winning the toss and choosing to bat, scored 164 runs for the loss of eight wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Key contributions came from Akash Sanap (32), Prasad Chavan (31), and Jitendra VN (25). The standout bowlers for India Senior were Sunny Goyal (3-17) and Imran Khan (2-49).

In reply, India Senior faced a challenging chase, losing wickets consistently. At one point, they found themselves at 38 for five and later 81 for eight. The only shining star for them was GS Shiva Shankara, who fought valiantly to score 67 runs off 43 balls, hitting four boundaries and five sixes. Ultimately, India Senior was all out for 136 runs in 19.3 overs. For India A, the leading bowlers were Nonsola Adil (3-40), G Prashant (2-15), and Mohammed Sadiq (2-3).

Each player of the match received Rs 11,000, and the player of the series, Wasim Iqbal from India Senior, was awarded Rs 21,000 by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA). Shiva Shankara, the player of the match in the last game, expressed his excitement about participating in the series.

“It has been an incredible experience to play at the legendary Wankhede Stadium,” Shiva Shankara remarked.

Originating from Bengaluru, Shiva Shankara plays cricket using only his left hand and embraces the challenge of competing at such a level. “It is tough, but I train regularly at the gym at least three to four times a week. I also compete frequently with able-bodied cricketers in corporate tournaments and have accumulated significant runs. My sincere gratitude goes to Mr. Ravi Kant Chauhan and his team for their relentless efforts,” he added.

Prof. Dr. Unmesh Khanvilkar, Secretary of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), stated: “This groundbreaking series—the first of its kind in the nation, initiated under the visionary guidance of our President Ajinkya Naik—is about much more than just competitive matches. It symbolizes our shared commitment to inclusivity, equality, dignity, and opportunity for all athletes, regardless of their physical or intellectual challenges. Sports have always been a formidable platform for empowerment. By providing these adept athletes with a structured and competitive environment, we affirm their skills, passion, and dedication. At the MCA, we are resolutely devoted to supporting every cricketer with talent, heart, and determination—because talent and excellence know no limits. I wish all the participants the best and eagerly anticipate witnessing inspiring and memorable cricket.”

Ravi Chauhan, Secretary General of DCCI, added: “Competing at the renowned Wankhede Stadium has been a dream realized for our Physical Disability cricketers. This opportunity illustrates that these athletes are now receiving the same respect, acknowledgment, and platform as traditional players. Heartfelt thanks to ICC Chairman Jay Shah for his visionary work in mainstreaming divyang cricket and gaining BCCI support for a sport that has been flourishing for over 40 years. A special acknowledgment to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for this historic initiative, and to MCA President Ajinkya Naik for making the dreams of our differently-abled cricketers a reality by providing them the chance to play at Wankhede and for being a leading advocate for differently-abled cricket. This marks a milestone for divyang cricket and serves as an inspiration for future generations.