Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The old Campion ground in the city is abuzz with determination and inspiration as the wheelchair cricket tournament unfolds. Eight state teams are competing, with players showcasing not just their cricketing skills but also their indomitable spirit in overcoming disabilities to achieve greatness.
These players highlight that they receive immense support from their families but lack consistent governmental backing, relying instead on private organisations and their own resources. Free Press spoke to a few players whose passion for cricket and determination to succeed continue to inspire.
Ramakrishnan: A story of passion from
Telangana Ramakrishnan, 36, hails from Hyderabad and serves as the vice-captain of Team Telangana. A polio survivor since the age of five, he has been playing cricket for the past five years. “I was normal, but polio hit me when I was five. Cricket is my passion,” he shared.
Despite his challenges, Ramakrishnan credits his family for unwavering support, though he laments the lack of government assistance. “Private NGOs have been our backbone”, he added.
Parvesh: Haryana’s torchbearer
At 32, Faridabad’s Parvesh Yadav represents Haryana. He began playing wheelchair cricket two to three years ago after discovering the sport during a trip to Delhi with a neighbour. A polio survivor due to a reaction to the vaccine, Yadav said, “We formed our own team in Haryana. We do everything ourselves, as we receive no government funding.”
Dhananjay: Leading
Chhattisgarh with Courage Dhananjay Yadav, 29, is the captain of Chhattisgarh’s wheelchair cricket team. Orthopedically disabled, he shared that wheelchair cricket gained popularity in his state only after 2018. “I’ve always been active, excelling in studies and sports. My family has been my biggest cheerleader,” he said.
However, inconsistent government support poses challenges. “Sometimes we get help, but often we are left to fend for ourselves,” he added. Box: Deepak: Madhya Pradesh’s multifaceted athlete Deepak Sharma, 37, from Guna, joined Madhya Pradesh’s wheelchair cricket team in 2016 and now serves as both a state coordinator and an all-rounder.
A polio survivor since infancy, Sharma’s passion for cricket began in childhood, watching his peers play. “I started playing in 2015, and along with Shailendra Yadav, founded the MP team,” he said. Besides cricket, Sharma is an international para-fencer and arm wrestler.
