The Indian men’s mixed disability cricket team began their APL Apollo Mixed Disability T20I series in emphatic fashion, registering a commanding seven-wicket win over England on Thursday, January 29, at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Stadium, Greater Noida.
Batting first, England posted a competitive 173/5, but India chased the target down with seven balls to spare, finishing on 175/3. Skipper Ravindra Gopinath Sante struck the winning runs to seal a confident opening victory.
India’s bowlers laid the foundation early, with Vivek Kumar picking up three wickets, while Jithendra VN and Deepak Kumar chipped in with one apiece. The highlight of the run chase was a superb innings from wicketkeeper-batter Yogendra Bhadoria, who smashed 94 off 57 deliveries, anchoring the pursuit with composure and authority.
The win marked a sharp turnaround from India’s previous tour of England in 2025, where the team was still finding its feet in the mixed disability format.
Speaking exclusively to RevSportz, Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) secretary general Ravikant Chauhan said, “It was a great start to the series. This time, we have a pretty strong team, with multiple changes.”
“Last time in England, it was our first time in this format and we had minimal experience,” he added. “The main issue was the coordination between the ID (Intellectual Disability), Deaf and Mute with the Physical Disability (PD) athletes. We rectified that this time.”
One of the standout features of the Indian squad is the inclusion of four players from Kashmir. Chauhan believes sport — and particularly disability cricket — can play a transformative role in regions affected by prolonged conflict.
“What I’m trying to say is that it’s a very big deal that four players in the Indian team are coming from regions where, traditionally, the youth were pushed in a very different direction,” Chauhan explained. “Through the sports community — and especially through disability cricket — if we can bring about a positive change in society, then that is a powerful sign for the future.”
He added, “After this series, whenever I get the opportunity, I want to visit their villages, meet people there, and tell them that their children are playing for the Indian team, making their village, their state, and the entire country proud. This awareness needs to reach every corner of Kashmir.”
Looking beyond the ongoing series, Chauhan revealed that mixed disability cricket is rapidly expanding on the global stage.
“After this series, we’re having talks of going to Canada for another series in July,” he said. “South Africa, Australia are also having talks of having a series among themselves soon.”
“This summer, South Africa will tour England for a seven-match series. Australia is preparing to tour next year. Canada is also ready. Five nations are already committed to mixed disability cricket,” he further said.
Chauhan also confirmed ongoing discussions with the sport’s global governing body. “We’ve had talks with the ECB chief about this format, and soon the ICC might recognise this format. They’ve already encouraged Test-playing nations to develop this format,” he said.
“India might lead the way for the first ever Mixed Disability World Cup in 2028.”
Returning to the current series, Chauhan emphasised the advantage of home conditions. “Playing at home has helped immensely. Conditions in England — especially the strong winds — posed challenges for communication and coordination.”
“Here, our players are more comfortable, more confident. England played well, but our players chased the target calmly, showing how much belief they have.”
Looking ahead, Chauhan struck an optimistic note. “Looking ahead, our team is strong. England has experience, no doubt. But the way our team is playing now, I truly believe we can give them tough competition — and even win the series if things fall into place.”
“With leaders like Jay Shah playing a key role at the ICC, there is hope. He has already transformed women’s cricket through initiatives like the WPL. Disability cricket is now getting recognition — but recognition alone is not enough. Results matter. If we continue to deliver results, support will follow.”
“After the England series, our next plan is to play Canada in a mixed disability series in July. The journey has only just begun,” he concluded.
For more updates, follow REVSPORTZ.
