18 December, Mumbai: India Senior’s GS Shiva Shankara’s grand effort with the bat went in vain as India A finally pulled one back in the three-match Physical Disability T20 series which came to an end at the historic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday.
In the third and final match of the series, India A after opting to bat posted 164 for eight in their 20 overs. There were equal contributions from Akash Sanap (32), Prasad Chavan (31) and Jitendra VN (25). For India Senior the best bowler was Sunny Goyal (3-17) and Imran Khan (2-49).
Prof. Dr. Unmesh Khanvilkar, Secretary, Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) said: “This historic series—the first initiative of its kind in the country, undertaken under the visionary leadership of our President Mr. Ajinkya Naik—represents far more than a set of competitive matches. It reflects our collective belief in inclusivity, equality, dignity, and opportunity for every sportsperson, irrespective of physical or intellectual ability. Sport has always been a powerful platform for empowerment. Providing these talented athletes with a structured and competitive stage validates their skill, passion, and commitment. Our objective goes beyond participation; it is to prepare these cricketers for higher levels of competition, from regional platforms to national and international arenas, enabling them to pursue their cricketing careers with pride and confidence. We are deeply inspired by the continued efforts of the Government of India and the Government of Maharashtra in promoting sports inclusivity and talent development. Such initiatives reinforce the national spirit that encourages and provides the necessary support systems to transform those dreams into reality—in para-sports. Events like this T20 series not only enhance competitive cricket but also highlight the inclusive vision, where talent truly meets opportunity without barriers. I would like to place on record my sincere appreciation to Mr. Ravikant Chauhan, Secretary of DCCI, and his entire committee for their initiative, dedication, and collaboration. This partnership strengthens our shared goal of advancing disability cricket and creating more meaningful opportunities in the future. At the Mumbai Cricket Association, we remain firmly committed to backing every cricketer with talent, heart, and determination—because ability and excellence know no boundaries. I wish all the participants the very best and look forward to witnessing inspiring and memorable cricket.”
In their response India Senior kept losing wickets at regular intervals. The side was struggling at 38 for five and further slipped to 81 for eight. Only man to stand out was GS Shiva Shankara who made a valiant 67 off 43 balls with four boundaries and five sixes. India Senior was bowled out for 136 in 19.3 overs. For India A the best bowlers were Nonsola Adil (3-40), G Prashant (2-15) and Mohammed Sadiq (2-3).
Ravi Chauhan, Secretary General, DCCI said: “Playing at the iconic Wankhede Stadium was a dream come true for our Physical Disability Cricketers. This opportunity proves that physical disability cricketers are now receiving the same respect, recognition, and platform as mainstream players. Heartfelt gratitude to ICC Chairman Sh. Jay Shah for his visionary efforts in bringing divyang cricket into the mainstream and securing BCCI support for a game that has been growing for over 40 years. A special thank you to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for taking this historic step, and to MCA President Mr. Ajinkya Naik for fulfilling the dream of our divyang Cricketer by giving them the opportunity to play at Wankhede and for leading from the front in support of differently abled cricket. A milestone moment for divyang cricket and an inspiration for generations to come.”
Player of the match in each of the three games were handed Rs 11,000 each and the player of the series, India Senior’s Wasim Iqbal received Rs 21,000 from Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA).
Player of the match in the final game, Shiva Shankara was thrilled to have got the opportunity to play the series. “It has been a terrific experience to play at the iconic Wankhede Stadium,” said Shiva Shankara.
Hailing from Bengaluru, Shiva Shankara plays with only his left-hand and enjoys the challenge of playing at this level. “It is difficult, but I train quite regularly in the gym at least three-four times a week. I play regularly with able bodied cricketers in corporate tournaments and have scored heavily. I can only thank Mr Ravi Kant Chauhan and his team for all their efforts.”
Brief Scores: India A 164-8 in 20 overs (Akash Sanap 32, Prasad Chavan 31, Jitendra VN 25; Sunny Goyal 3-17, Imran Khan 2-49) lost to India Senior 136 in 19.3 overs (Shiva Shankara 67, Sunny Goyal 21; Nonsola Adil 3-40, Mohammed Sadiq 2-3, G Prashant 2-15)-by 28 runs
