New Delhi– In a landmark moment for Indian cricket, the country’s Mixed Disability Cricket Team made its debut at the hallowed grounds of Lord’s in London this week. The match was played as part of an ongoing series against a seasoned opponent with nearly eight years of experience in mixed disability cricket. This momentous occasion marks India’s official entry onto the global stage in this inclusive format of the game.
Adding to the significance of the event, Sminu Jindal, Founder and Chairperson of Svayam, was specially invited by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to speak on inclusion at the venue. Representing India before officials from seven international cricket boards, Jindal strongly advocated for inclusive planning in sports—not only in terms of accessibility but also in creating transparent and equal opportunities for all athletes.
“What’s happening at Lord’s is not incidental, it’s symbolic,” Jindal remarked during her address. “This ground has witnessed some of cricket’s greatest moments. Today, it is witnessing inclusion.”
The partnership between Svayam and the Disability Cricket Council of India (DCCI) began in 2021, and since then, has flourished through a series of initiatives aimed at inclusive sporting. Over the past few years, this collaboration has grown from the Tokyo Paralympics to the PD Championships and Khelo India Para Games, creating a strong base for disability sports in India.
The current tournament at Lord’s is a culmination of years of relentless effort by the DCCI, which has been working tirelessly with players with physical, intellectual, and hearing impairments. The Indian team’s appearance at Lord’s is a significant milestone, not just for the players, but for the evolution of mixed disability cricket in India—a format with immense career potential but still striving for mainstream recognition.
Interestingly, the Indian men’s cricket team is also on tour in England at the same time, symbolizing a broader national representation across various cricketing formats. “Our goal is not just to win the series, but to champion the cause of inclusion,” a DCCI official remarked. “Together, both teams are showcasing India’s diverse talent on a world-class platform.”
During her speech, Jindal also announced that Svayam will host India’s first National Conference on Accessible Sports and Tourism in November this year. The conference will bring together stakeholders from policy, sports, hospitality, and the disability sectors to share ideas and strategize for a more inclusive future. The initiative holds particular relevance as India looks ahead to potentially hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games and 2036 Olympics.
This milestone at Lord’s isn’t just a sporting achievement—it’s a testament to a long, determined journey led by organizations like Svayam and DCCI. It is a journey toward making every pitch and every platform accessible for all athletes, regardless of their abilities.
As the tricolour flew high at Lord’s, it wasn’t just about cricket. It was about a nation taking a firm step towards redefining inclusivity in sports.
