"Science kehta hain main women's cricket ke liye eligible hoon," says Anaya Bangar

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar’s daughter, Anaya Bangar, has had a unique journey in Indian cricket. She grew up playing the sport, but her path has been anything but traditional. Anaya collaborated with Manchester Metropolitan University to evaluate her eligibility for women’s cricket. The reports compared her muscle power, endurance, glucose, and oxygen levels with those of cisgender female athletes. These results were found to be within the accepted norms.

Bangar’s approach is defined by transparency and a desire to encourage understanding among others. Currently, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) both do not allow transgender athletes to compete in women’s cricket, to which Bangar has submitted her scientific findings for their review. She believes that conversations should be guided by facts, not fear.

Societal norms and long-held beliefs are significant issues that go beyond cricket, according to Bangar. She raises a pointed question: Will society be ready to accept scientific evidence? Bangar’s campaign is as much about shifting public perception as it is about changing sporting policy.

When asked whether she believed the women’s cricket world would welcome her, Anaya responded, “Indian women cricketers have always shown strength, grace, and resilience. I’ve seen them fight—for recognition, resources, and respect. That gives me hope. I believe they understand what it means to be sidelined and underestimated. That shared experience makes me feel like there’s room for sisterhood and solidarity here.”

Anaya’s father’s acceptance has been her biggest challenge, despite her achievements, growing public support, and breaking barriers on the field. She says, “My relationship with my father is complex, like many families navigating change. I hope that one day he will find a way to stand beside me.”

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Bangar’s podcast has publicly sparked a serious conversation about how science and identity can coexist on the field. While Bangar is unsure whether the authorities will change their policies, her data-driven transparency and open discussions have already ignited a significant debate.