The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is taking a significant step towards inclusivity in cricket by proposing the creation of two international disability teams. In a letter addressed to cricket board officials from India, Australia, Pakistan, and South Africa, ECB secretary Richard Gould outlined the plan.
The proposal suggests establishing a blind XI team as a standalone format and a pan-disability team, encompassing players with hearing, intellectual, and physical impairments. Gould envisions hosting the inaugural pan-disability tournament in 2025, bringing together teams from the five participating nations.
Gould highlights the current lack of structure and support for disability cricket globally. He emphasizes the need for greater coordination and strategy across various disability categories, recognizing the potential of this untapped market with an estimated 1.3 billion people with disabilities worldwide.
The ECB’s initiative aims to not only promote the sport among disability communities but also foster greater inclusivity within cricket. The proposal has been well-received by the International Cricket Council (ICC), which is keen on providing support for this member-driven initiative.
Discussions are expected to take place during the ICC Annual Conference in Colombo, with the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) representative Ravi Chauhan playing a key role in facilitating communication between the BCCI and the ECB. This bold move by the ECB could pave the way for a more inclusive and representative future for cricket, reaching out to a wider audience and inspiring countless individuals with disabilities.
