RevSportz Exclusive
In a first-of-its-kind initiative, India’s mixed disability cricket team is set to tour England for a seven-match T20I series, including a fixture at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground – the Vitality Mixed Disability IT20 Series. Leading this historic side is Rohit Jhalani, former Rajasthan Ranji captain and head coach of the mixed disability team. Jhalani has been involved with disability cricket since 2017 and took over as head coach of the physical disability team two years ago.
What makes this tour unique is that for the first time, three categories of disability — physical disability, hearing impairment (deaf and mute), and intellectual/learning disabilities (ID/LD) — are being combined into one squad. Each playing eleven must include at least three players from any of these categories, making it a bold and inclusive step in global cricket. The series has received support from both the ECB and ICC.
“This is the first time such a format is being played. Even for us, it’s a new and different experience,” Jhalani said.
He explained that finding cricket-ready talent from the ID and LD categories was particularly challenging. In India, these children are more commonly involved in athletics or sports like football and badminton. Cricket had previously not been encouraged due to safety concerns and delayed reaction times. But that is beginning to change.
Also Read: Vitality IT20 Mixed Disability Series: Cricket Finds New Hope at the Home of Cricket
“Earlier, kids with learning and intellectual disabilities weren’t allowed to play cricket. But things are changing. Awareness is growing.”
Jhalani recalled how many camps were held in Delhi, Bangalore, Faridabad and Jaipur, but only a few cricket players came through in the ID/LD category. Still, he sees the upcoming tour as a major breakthrough.
He has already seen the rise of physical disability cricket in India. The team recently won the Champions Trophy and a bilateral series against Sri Lanka. A steady calendar of zonal and national tournaments has been established, helping develop a competitive pool of 50–60 players across the country.
The excitement among the players is palpable, especially with one of the matches scheduled to be played at Lord’s.
“England is the birthplace of cricket. And Lord’s is the Mecca of cricket. So playing at such venues, in such conditions, will definitely be a lot of fun for these kids. It will be a new learning experience for the mixed disability team.”
Jhalani believes that success on this tour can open new doors. “If this event is successful, and we move forward in a good way, there will be a new platform for these kids. Events will start at the ICC level.”
He also shared insight into discussions about cricket’s inclusion in the Paralympics.
“As we all know, cricket is being added to the Olympics next year. What I’m hearing from some sources, is that, in the Paralympics, an exhibition match between India and the Rest of the world will mark the start of para-cricket. If that happens, it will be a game-changer for para-athletes and para-cricketers”, he added.
He emphasised that the mixed format also enables greater global participation.
“Physical disability teams exist in countries like England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Australia. The ID teams are strong in South Africa and England. There are deaf and mute teams as well, including the West Indies. Mixed disability helps bring them together, creating stronger teams and better opportunities.”
Societal change is already visible, Jhalani said. “In the past, parents who had a disabled child would not let them go out. Life was very tough for them. But now, as para-athletes have proven themselves, parents have become aware that their children can go out and make the country proud. This has built confidence in both children and parents.”
Coaching players with intellectual disabilities is a new chapter in his journey. “It will be my first time dealing with this type of disability (ID). But there is a doctor to help me understand their behaviour and mindset. Every Indian child watches, plays and loves cricket. I think that will help with bonding.”
He ended with a message for fans as the team is currently preparing in Jaipur for this groundbreaking tour.
“They are playing for the pride of India. We are playing for the name and the flag of India. These children have the right to be supported. Your support will be a great boost for them. They deserve the same name and status as India’s men’s and women’s teams.”
EXCLUSIVE
We’re playing for the Indian flag. In England they deserve the same support as the men’s and women’s teams” – Indian Mixed Disability team head coach @rohitjhalani01 on the upcoming tour – the Vitality Mixed Disability series versus England.@TataSteelLtd… pic.twitter.com/SaqX0AmkHA
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) June 12, 2025