The Indian Deaf Cricket Team showcased a dominant performance on their tour of South Africa, securing victories in all three T20Is and both ODIs against the hosts. Competing at Sinoville Cricket Club, the visitors outperformed South Africa across all aspects of the game. The series was organized by the IDCA, with support from the BCCI and recognition from the Deaf International Cricket Council and Asian Deaf Cricket Association.
In the T20I series, India triumphed by chasing down 108 runs in the opening match, followed by an eight-wicket win in the second game after pursuing 109 runs. The third T20I witnessed India posting 157/3 and restricting South Africa to 85 runs, clinching a commanding 72-run victory. The ODI series continued India’s strong form, with comfortable wins in both matches. They chased down 118 runs in the first ODI to win by seven wickets and secured a narrow one-wicket victory in the second ODI while chasing 203 runs, completing a 2-0 sweep.
Virender Singh emerged as the standout player of the series, earning the Player of the Series title in both formats. He excelled as the top batsman and bowler in the T20Is and claimed the best bowler award in the ODIs. Sai Akash was recognized as the best batsman in the ODI series. The closing ceremony witnessed the presence of IDCA officials, support partners, and both teams. Notably, team representatives, including captain Virender Singh and IDCA President Sumit Jain, honored Acting High Commissioner Banu Prakash with a signed jersey and cap as a gesture of respect and unity.
Sumit Jain, President of IDCA, expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, highlighting their preparation and determination to secure the championship title. He emphasized the team’s comprehensive efforts to ensure victory in the series. Roma Balwani, CEO of IDCA, emphasized the significance of hosting the series in Pretoria, strengthening the bond between India and South Africa and promoting deaf cricket as a competitive and inspiring sport. She underscored the role of such events in fostering connections and celebrating shared values. The association extended gratitude to Jay Shah, Chairman of the ICC, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India for their support of disability cricket initiatives.
