The cricket world is witnessing a landmark moment this year as India’s deaf cricketers prepare to break new ground on the international stage. In a massive leap forward for inclusivity in the sport, the Indian Women’s Deaf Cricket Team is scheduled to fly to Sri Lanka this July. This marks the first time in history that the women’s squad will compete in an overseas bilateral series, a move that many hope will pave the way for more formal recognition and professional growth for these athletes.
The upcoming tour will consist of five T20 International matches against Sri Lanka. Speaking on the significance of the trip, men’s head coach Dev Dutt shared the excitement surrounding the selection process. “This marks a historic moment, as it is the first time the Indian Women’s Deaf Cricket Team is preparing for an international bilateral T20I series.
“The team is set to play five T20I matches against Sri Lanka. For many players, including some in the current squad, this is their first international tour and first experience at this level, with no prior participation in world championships. The squad selection is currently underway, with a shortlist of 15 players being finalized,” Dutt explained.
The foundation for this squad was laid during a high-stakes national tournament held recently in Gurgaon. The competition saw intense battles between various state teams, ultimately seeing Andhra Pradesh take home the trophy while Delhi finished as the runners-up. It was this tournament that served as the primary scouting ground for the national selectors.
Dutt further noted that the focus is on talent and growth: “Preparations began following a recent national tournament held in Gurgaon, where teams from multiple states participated. Delhi secured second place, while Andhra Pradesh finished first. Based on performances in this tournament, top players from across states have been shortlisted.”
The management has also made it clear that the tour won’t just be about the final scoreline, but about giving every player on the 15-member shortlist a chance to prove themselves on foreign soil.
While the women are preparing for their July debut, the men’s deaf team is already gearing up for their own immediate challenge. The squad is set to travel to South Africa for a series featuring two ODIs and three T20Is, scheduled to take place at the Sinoville Cricket Club in Pretoria from April 25 to May 2. To mark the occasion, the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) recently pulled the curtain back on the team’s new official jersey, signaling their readiness for the pacy South African pitches.
The leadership at the IDCA remains the driving force behind these opportunities, securing the corporate backing necessary to fund international travel and training. Sumit Jain, President of the IDCA, expressed his confidence in the men’s squad as they head into the Pretoria series. “Our players are well-prepared and excited for the championship. They are ready to showcase their skills and compete for the prestigious title. I wish them the very best for the series.
“We could not have held this championship without the continuous support of our principal partner, Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla, Chairman of Serum Institute of India, who helps us every day in celebrating Deaf Cricket. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank KFC India, Hero (We Care – A Hero MotoCorp CSR Initiative), Steel Authority of India Limited, Kaizzen, Impact Research & Measurement Pvt. Ltd., Shiv Naresh Sports Pvt. Ltd., and RB Foundation for being our support partners. Your support has been instrumental in making this championship a grand success,” Jain said.
Led by Captain Virender Singh and Vice-Captain Sai Akash, the men’s roster features a diverse mix of talent from across the country, from Jammu & Kashmir to Tamil Nadu. As both the men’s and women’s teams prepare for their respective journeys, the message is clear: the boundaries of Indian cricket are expanding, ensuring that talent is recognized regardless of the challenges these athletes face.
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