The Haryana Wheelchair Cricket Association (HWCA) marked the occasion of International Day for Persons with Disabilities on December 3rd, 2024, with an inspiring and historic event at the RS Cricket Ground, Faridabad. The day featured an exceptional Inter-Zonal Wheelchair Cricket Match between Faridabad Titans and Sonipat Strikers, showcasing the remarkable talent and indomitable spirit of differently-abled athletes from Haryana.
A Day of Significance: Sports and Empowerment
The day commenced with a Special Sports Wheelchair Distribution Drive, generously supported by ALIMCO and SBI with unwavering support from Radhika ji from ALIMCO, who provided much-needed specialized wheelchairs to further the sporting ambitions of Haryana’s differently-abled cricketers. This thoughtful initiative underscored the association’s commitment to empowering athletes with the tools necessary to excel on the field.
The subsequent cricket match was a thrilling encounter, filled with skillful performances, sportsmanship, and camaraderie. Faridabad Titans, led by Jitender Thakur, won the toss and elected to bat, setting a target of 110/7 in just 15 overs. However, the Sonipat Strikers, captained by Monu, displayed remarkable finesse and chased the target, achieving 111 runs with the loss of just two wickets, and claiming victory by 8 wickets. Faridabad Titans gave a tough competition to Sonipat Strikers.
Recognizing Excellence
Faridabad Titans team consisted of Jitender Thakur as captain, Vikram Nath, Vinay Balguher, Rahees Saifi, Parmod, Tarif Ajij, Ajay Kumar, Devendra Kumar, Rajender Malik, Sunil Gole, Maan Singh and Jai Prakash. Sonipat Strikers team consisted of Monu as captain, Balram Kaushik, Vajid, Pardeep Dahiya, Ishwar, Mohit, Surender Rana, Surender Bhatgaon, Vijay, Dinesh Rana and Satender.
The day was as much about recognizing talent as it was about celebrating the sport. Rahees Saifi earned the Best Batsman Award for his exceptional performance, while Monu claimed the Best Bowler Award. Rajender Malik was recognized as the Best Fielder, and Mohit was celebrated as the Player of the Match for his all-round excellence.
The winning team trophy was presented by Chief Guest Shri Vidhan Pratap, who delivered a motivational address that left an indelible mark on all present. His words resonated deeply with players and spectators, highlighting the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and the spirit of inclusivity.
A Collective Effort of Dedication
The success of this landmark event was a result of the collective efforts of HWCA’s dedicated team. Haryana’s Wheelchair Cricket Team Coach Shri Jagroop Kundu and International record-holder player Sandeep Kundu travelled specially from Kaithal to extend their guidance and motivation to all the participating players. HWCA Chairperson Shri Tarang Kashyap played a pivotal role in inspiring players and overseeing the event’s success alongside Event’s Lead Coordinators Shri Girdhar, Shri Deepak Thakur, Shri Piyush Sharma, Shri Vikrant, Vansh Sharma, Ashish Tiwari and Gopi.
Special thanks are also due to Cricket Coach Shri Rohit Sharma, from RS Cricket Academy, for offering unconditional support as the event’s venue partner, and hearty thanks to DCCI Secretary Shri Ravi Chauhan for his unwavering encouragement, commitment and blessings. The match was officiated by umpires Altaf Ahmed and Sandeep Kundu, ensuring the game was conducted with the highest standards of fairness.
Inspiring the Future
This event not only celebrated the triumph of talent and resilience but also served as a clarion call for greater participation in wheelchair cricket. Several spectators, moved by the passion and dedication of the players, expressed interest in joining future HWCA events. The association continues to fulfill its mission of transforming the landscape of wheelchair cricket in Haryana—a state known for its rich sporting legacy.
Under the steadfast leadership of Shri Anuraag Kashyap, HWCA has been instrumental in providing differently-abled athletes with opportunities to excel. As an only unanimous body of Wheelchair Cricket in Haryana and also with necessary recognition from Differently-abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) and Wheelchair Cricket India Association (WCIA), and also with support of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), HWCA is dedicated to promoting wheelchair cricket across the state. With plans to organize district- and national-level tournaments in the near future, HWCA is poised to make Haryana a hub for wheelchair cricket in India.
A Message of Unity and Growth
The event concluded with an inspiring address by HWCA president Shri Anuraag Kashyap, who encouraged differently-abled individuals to take up the sport and reiterated HWCA’s commitment to providing unwavering support to its players. “Cricket is more than a game here; it is a way to redefine abilities and inspire others. Here, there are no losers, everyone who enters the ground is a winner already.” he remarked. He also explained the importance of the game after it has been added to the games of Olympics in future.
He ended his speech with the rallying cry,
“Jeet ki taiyaari hai, Ab humari baari hai.
Jai Haryana!”
Join the Movement
The HWCA invites individuals, organizations, and sponsors to join hands in this transformative journey of inclusivity and empowerment. As the association continues to pave the way for wheelchair cricket in Haryana, it welcomes new players and supporters to be part of this growing movement.
Let us work together to redefine possibilities, celebrate talent, and make wheelchair cricket a beacon of inspiration for all.
