The Indian Physical Disability Cricket Team wrapped up an impressive performance at the PD Deepaka Lohia Memorial Trophy 2025 with a flawless 5-0 sweep over Sri Lanka. This tournament highlighted both exceptional competitiveness and the inclusive nature of disability sports, underscoring their rising prominence across South Asia.
Organized collaboratively by the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) and Wilspoke Sports and Entertainment, this series took place at Kini Cricket Ground in Bengaluru between April 26th and May 5th. The event garnered significant backing from athletes, sponsors, attendees, and supporters advocating for disability rights.
During the concluding game in Bengaluru, India secured the win after winning the coin toss and deciding to bat first. They established an impressive target score of 191 runs for 5 wickets within 20 overs. The Indian batsmen demonstrated exceptional calmness and skill, asserting dominance over their opponents. Conversely, Sri Lanka was all out for only 88 runs off 15.1 overs, resulting in a decisive triumph for India.
Narendra Mangore received the Player of the Match award due to his exceptional play in the finale. Ravindra Sante earned the Player of the Series title because of his steady performances across all the matches.
The winning Indian squad was presented with a cash award of Rs 2,00,000, whereas the Sri Lankan team received Rs 50,000 plus trophies for their praiseworthy involvement.
The closing ceremony featured appearances by Mr Dhruv Prabhakar, Ms Isha Prabhakar, and Mr Vikram Singh (who leads marketing efforts for the Gopalan Group), as well as Mr Nishanth AJ (the Founder and CEO of Wilspoke Sports and Entertainment). The involvement of these individuals underscored increasing business interest in backing athletes with disabilities and promoting inclusive sports initiatives.
Mr Ravi Kant Chauhan, General Secretary of DCCI, commented, “This comprehensive triumph marks an illustrious milestone for Indian disability cricket. The athletes have demonstrated to our nation the essence of perseverance and dedication. This success goes beyond winning a series—it signifies progress towards integrating disability sports into the core fabric of athletic activities.”
Squadron Leader Abhay Pratap Singh, Joint Secretary at DCCI, stated, “The PD Deepika Lohia Memorial Trophy serves as an emblem of chance, fairness, and top performance. This tournament has underscored that disabled athletes merit equivalent opportunities, and our squad has once more brought pride to the country. We express gratitude to Sri Lanka for their spirited competition and exemplary conduct.”
Mr Nishanth AJ, Founder & CEO of Wilspoke Sports and Entertainment, stated: “At Wilspoke, we hold the belief that sports serve as a global tongue that should embrace all individuals. This series has showcased the skill and passion inherent in Para Dance (PD) sport. It’s an honor for us to be part of such a landmark effort, and we remain committed to advancing inclusivity in sports across India.”
Not only did this tournament showcase the increasing proficiency in physically disabled cricket within the area, but it also highlighted the significance of collaborations among federations, businesses, and local communities in advancing the cause of inclusion.
As the PD Deepaka Lohia Memorial Trophy 2025 comes to an end, the message rings out distinctly: being disabled does not mean incapable—and these athletes aim to inspire, compete, and take charge.
