‘It was truly inspiring to interact with these remarkable players’: BCCI Secy Saikia lauds India’s differently-abled cricketers

New Delhi, Aug 24 (IANS) BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia on Monday praised India’s differently-abled cricketers for their determination and achievements after meeting the Indian Mixed Disability Men’s Cricket Team and office bearers of the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI), along with BCCI President Mithun Manhas and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, following their successful tour of England.

Saikia, who met the team alongside Shah and BCCI president Mithun Manhas, said the interaction with the players was an inspiring experience and hailed their efforts for making the country proud.

“Privileged to join Hon’ble Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah ji and BCCI President Shri Mithun Manhas in meeting and congratulating India’s differently-abled cricketers & office bearers of DCCI in New Delhi yesterday, following their recent tour of the United Kingdom. It was truly inspiring to interact with these remarkable players, whose determination and passion made the Nation proud. Wishing them greater success,” Saikia wrote on X on Monday.

The meeting came after India’s memorable campaign in the India-England Men’s Mixed Disability T20I Series 2026, where the visitors secured a 4-3 series victory over England.

India had to overcome an early setback after England won the opening T20I by 29 runs on August 5. The Indian side responded strongly two days later, winning by six runs, before edging England by eight runs on August 9.

England levelled the series on August 12 with a two-run victory while chasing India’s 117-run total. India then regained control with back-to-back victories on August 15 and 16, winning by 54 and 18 runs respectively. The series was eventually decided on August 19, when India sealed an 18-run victory after posting 206-4.

The series triumph marked a significant moment for disability cricket in India, with the team producing a resilient performance across a closely contested seven-match contest in England.

Amit Shah had also welcomed the team back in New Delhi and praised its contribution to Indian sport.

“Glad to have met the Divyang Men’s Cricket Team of India in New Delhi today. The team has returned from its tour of England for the India-England Men’s Mixed Disability T20I Series 2026. Their efforts and determination to win honours for the nation inspire the youth of India. Wished them all the best for their future endeavours,” the Home Minister wrote on X on Sunday.

–IANS

vi/