Indian Women's Deaf Cricket Team Embarks on Historic Sri Lanka Tour

The squad is set to make its international debut this week, marking a significant milestone for inclusivity in Indian sports.

The Indian Women’s Deaf Cricket Team is poised to create history as they depart for their first-ever international tour. The 15-member squad will face Sri Lanka in a five-match T20 International (T20I) series, scheduled to take place at the De Soysa Park International Cricket Stadium in Moratuwa from July 7 to July 13, 2026. This landmark series represents the team’s formal entry onto the global stage and serves as a testament to the growing recognition of differently-abled athletes in India.

Ahead of their departure, the squad held a jersey unveiling ceremony in New Delhi, attended by key figures including Sumit Jain, President of the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), and former Indian women’s cricket team captain Diana Edulji. The event underscored the significance of this milestone, which has been long-awaited by players who have historically trained outside the international spotlight.

Breaking Barriers on the Global Stage

For many of the athletes, this tour is more than a sporting event; it is an affirmation of their dedication and talent. Captain Kajal Dhawan, who will lead the side as a wicketkeeper-batter, emphasized the deeper meaning of the tour. "Going to Sri Lanka for our first international T20 tour is not just about playing cricket; it’s about proving that hearing is not a barrier to passion, skill, or representing our country," Dhawan stated during the team launch.

The team has been supported by the IDCA and the BCCI Differently Abled Cricket Committee, which have worked to provide structured competitive platforms for hearing-impaired cricketers. According to officials, this international exposure is expected to provide the players with the high-level match experience necessary to compete consistently at the global level.

Looking Toward the Future

The IDCA has announced a robust roadmap for the growth of women's deaf cricket in India, ensuring that this tour is merely the beginning of a sustained international effort. Future plans include:

• T20I Tri-Series: A tournament featuring India, Sri Lanka, and Trinidad & Tobago is slated for March 2027 in India.

• Global Showcase: The Deaf International Cricket Council (DICC) Women’s T20 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted in Delhi in February 2028.

These initiatives are intended to foster a sustainable ecosystem for women’s deaf cricket, offering a clear pathway for aspiring athletes across the country.

Official Sources

• Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) – Provided official team rosters and scheduling details for the tour.

• Press Trust of India (PTI) – Served as the primary source for the squad announcement and press release documentation.

• Deaf International Cricket Council (DICC) – Recognized body for the upcoming DICC Women's T20 World Cup.

Why It Matters

This tour bridges a significant gap in the representation of differently-abled women in professional sports. By providing an international platform, the Indian Women’s Deaf Cricket Team is helping to normalize inclusive sports participation, inspiring a new generation of girls who have previously lacked visible role models in the hearing-impaired cricket circuit.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Historic Debut: This is the first international T20 series for the Indian women’s deaf cricket team.

• Series Details: Five T20 matches will be played in Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, from July 7–13, 2026.

• Leadership: The 15-member squad is led by captain and wicketkeeper Kajal Dhawan, with Needa Zabi Shaikh serving as vice-captain.

• Upcoming Milestones: India is set to host a Tri-Series in 2027 and the DICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2028.

FAQ

1. Who are the key players on the Indian women's deaf cricket team?

The squad is captained by Kajal Dhawan (wicketkeeper), with Needa Zabi Shaikh as the vice-captain. The team includes 13 other players, such as Pratima Mishra, Aakansha Kanasiya, and Ruby Yadav.

2. Where can fans follow the tour?

Updates on the series can be tracked through the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) social media channels and official press releases provided by the DCCI and affiliated media outlets.

3. What is the impact of this tour for the players?

The tour provides necessary international experience and visibility, helping players transition from domestic tournaments to a competitive global environment.

4. When will India host the T20 World Cup for deaf women?

India is scheduled to host the DICC Women's T20 World Cup in Delhi in February 2028.

Source: Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), Press Trust of India (PTI), Deaf International Cricket Council (DICC)