India Secures Commanding Victory in Historic Mixed Disability T20I Series Opener
In a landmark moment for inclusive cricket, India launched the historic five-match Mixed Disability T20 International series against England with a resounding seven-wicket victory. The opening match, held at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Stadium in Greater Noida on Thursday, saw the hosts chase down a competitive target with confidence and flair.
England Sets a Challenging Total
After losing the toss and being put into bat, England posted a formidable 173 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs. Captain Callum Flynn provided an explosive start, smashing 26 runs off just 16 balls to set an aggressive tempo. Lian O'Brien then anchored the innings with a composed half-century, scoring 55 off 41 deliveries, which included four boundaries and three sixes.
Wicketkeeper-batter Angus Grant Brown further bolstered the English total with a fluent 53 off 34 balls in the latter stages of the innings. His contribution ensured England crossed the 170-run mark, setting a challenging target for the Indian side.
Indian Bowlers Display Discipline
India's bowling attack maintained remarkable discipline during crucial phases of the England innings. Akash Singh and Vivek Kumar claimed important wickets at key moments, effectively disrupting England's momentum and preventing the formation of substantial partnerships. Their efforts kept the target within a manageable range for the Indian batters.
Bhadoria's Match-Winning Masterclass
In response, India chased down the total with authority, reaching 175 for 3 in just 18.5 overs. The chase was masterfully led by wicketkeeper-batter Yogendra Bhadoria, who delivered a spectacular match-winning performance. Bhadoria's magnificent 94 off 59 balls, featuring six fours and five sixes, provided both stability and explosive momentum throughout the innings.
For his outstanding contribution, Yogendra Bhadoria was rightfully adjudged the Player of the Match. The award was presented by Sharad Pathak (Aavas) in the presence of Ritu Mathur and Sanjay Sachdeva from BPCL, adding to the significance of the occasion.
Supporting Cast and Distinguished Guests
Bhadoria received valuable support from Akash Singh, who played a blistering knock of 36 off just 15 balls, applying immense pressure on the English bowlers. Arjun Gawre contributed 13 runs, while Majid (12 not out) and skipper Ravindra Sante (11 not out) guided India to victory without further loss.
The historic event was graced by several distinguished guests, including Laxmi Singh, Police Commissioner of Gautam Budh Nagar; Tejpal Nagar, MLA Dadri; and Laxmi V.S., ACO of Greater Noida Authority (Planning). Their presence underscored the importance of this pioneering series.
Bhadoria Emphasizes Team Spirit and Inclusion
Speaking after receiving the Player of the Match award, Yogendra Bhadoria highlighted the collective effort behind the victory. "This award means a lot to me, but more importantly, it belongs to the entire team," he said. "We played with belief and confidence, and it feels special to contribute in a series that stands for inclusion and equal opportunity."
Series Significance and Future Matches
This victory gives India a 1–0 lead in the groundbreaking series, which aims to promote inclusivity by bringing together players with physical, hearing, and intellectual disabilities in a unified international format. The series represents a significant step forward in making cricket more accessible and representative.
The second T20I of this landmark series will also be played in Greater Noida, as both teams continue to showcase exceptional talent and sportsmanship in the spirit of inclusivity.
