The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) has officially announced a 15-member squad that will represent the nation in an upcoming tour of the United Arab Emirates. This significant selection marks a crucial step in the team's preparation for international competition.
Meet the Selected Squad Members
The touring party features a blend of experienced campaigners and fresh talent. Sumit Soni will lead the team as captain, bringing his leadership expertise to the forefront. The squad includes several key players who have proven their worth in previous tournaments.
The complete 15-member team consists of: Sumit Soni (Captain), Virender Singh, Durgarao Pujari, Ramdev Singh, Mahantesh M, Rahul D, Mahammad Sadiq, Abhishek Singh, Binit Singh, Mahip Deswal, Nitin B, Abhishek S, Jignesh D, Rahul S, and Naresh B. This diverse group represents various regions across India, showcasing the growing reach of deaf cricket in the country.
Leadership and Management Team
Supporting the players will be a dedicated management team tasked with ensuring the squad's success abroad. Ravi Kumar has been appointed as the team manager, responsible for overseeing all logistical arrangements and player welfare during the tour.
The coaching staff includes Rizwan Khan serving as head coach, Rohit Jain as assistant coach, and Kuldeep Singh taking on the role of coach and trainer. This experienced technical team will focus on refining the players' skills and developing effective strategies for the upcoming matches.
Tour Details and Significance
The Indian deaf cricket team is scheduled to embark on their UAE tour in September 2024. While specific dates for the matches are yet to be finalized, the association is working diligently to arrange competitive fixtures against strong opposition.
This international exposure is particularly important as it serves as vital preparation for future global tournaments. The tour will provide Indian deaf cricketers with valuable experience playing in different conditions against international opponents, helping to strengthen the foundation of deaf cricket in India.
The selection committee, led by IDCA chairman Sumit Jain, expressed confidence in the chosen squad. Jain emphasized that the selection process was thorough and focused on identifying the most talented and dedicated players capable of representing India with distinction on the international stage.
This announcement has generated significant excitement within India's deaf cricket community, with fans eagerly anticipating the team's performance in the UAE. The tour represents another important milestone in the development and promotion of deaf cricket in India, offering players a platform to showcase their abilities and inspire the next generation of hearing-impaired cricketers.
