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India’s Unsung Heroes Take Their Shot at Glory in the UK

by R. Suryamurthy June 22, 2025

By R. Suryamurthy June 22, 2025 0 comments 3 minutes read

PHOTO: Differently-Abled Cricket Council Of India/Facebook

For years, for many of them, the idea of representing India on a cricket field seemed like a distant, almost impossible dream. But today, the vibrant hum of anticipation is palpable as India’s first pan-disability cricket team stands on the cusp of making history, preparing for a landmark tour to England. This isn’t just about cricket; it’s a profound testament to resilience, inclusion, and the unwavering spirit of athletes who refuse to be defined by their challenges.

This pioneering team, a remarkable blend of talent from across India, comprises players with physical, hearing, and intellectual disabilities. Each member brings their unique journey of overcoming adversity to the pitch, united by their passion for the game. Their upcoming international debut in the Vitality IT20 Mixed Disability Series against England is more than just a series of matches; it’s a powerful statement to the world about what true ability looks like.

Under the inspiring leadership of Mumbai’s own Ravindra Sante, a left-arm spinning all-rounder whose own right hand was paralyzed since childhood, the team will play seven T20 International matches across renowned venues in England throughout June and July 2025. Sante’s journey, from rigorously training and competing against able-bodied cricketers in Mumbai’s top local tournaments to captaining this national side, is a beacon of hope and a testament to relentless dedication.

The excitement reached a fever pitch earlier this week in New Delhi at a celebratory ceremony where Shri Deepak Jain, Chief General Manager – Sports (HRS), BPCL, officially unveiled the team’s jersey. Adorned with the BPCL logo, the jersey isn’t just a piece of fabric; it’s a symbol of a powerful partnership, a tangible commitment from a Fortune Global 500 company to champion diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities through the transformative power of sports.

“It’s a moment of immense pride for these players and for India,” shared a representative from the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI). “Playing at Lord’s – the Home of Cricket – is a dream come true for every cricketer, and our team has truly come a long way to reach this milestone.” Indeed, a highlight of the tour will be a match at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, an experience many able-bodied professional cricketers only dream of.

For years, disability cricket in India has faced significant challenges, from limited access to facilities and specialized equipment to a lack of widespread recognition and financial support. Often, children with intellectual and learning disabilities were not even encouraged to pursue cricket due to safety concerns. However, the landscape is slowly but surely changing, driven by the sheer determination of these athletes and the growing support from organizations like BPCL and DCCI.

The team has been diligently preparing, with training camps fostering synergy among players with diverse abilities. This innovative “mixed disability” format, bringing together players with physical, hearing, and intellectual impairments in one squad, is a pioneering step in global cricket, and a true embodiment of inclusivity.

As Team India steps onto the hallowed grounds of England, they carry not just the hopes of a nation, but the dreams of countless individuals who believe that passion, talent, and perseverance know no limits. Their journey is a powerful reminder that the true spirit of cricket, and indeed the human spirit, triumphs over all boundaries. BPCL’s backing is not just a sponsorship; it’s an investment in a more inclusive future for Indian sports, where every talent, regardless of ability, has the chance to shine on the world stage.