In wheelchairs, they show their ability has no boundaries

JAIPUR : It was a special cricket match, marked by enthusiasm and excitement, at the Chaugan stadium here. Differently abled youths rolled down the lush green field on wheelchairs while batting, bowling and fielding.

A two-day national triangular T20 wheelchair cricket series started on Monday; Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab teams are participating.

“This is the first time that a wheelchair cricket tournament is being organised in Rajasthan; the initiative is aimed to promote sports among specially abled people. Four best players from this tournament will be selected for the Indian wheelchair cricket team,” said Mahesh Kumar Sahu, president of the Rajasthan Wheelchair Cricket Association.

The players on wheelchairs include those who have played cricket at the top level.

“I am part of the Indian wheelchair cricket team and played in Malaysia in a three-match series against Pakistan. I lost the ability to walk at a very young age because of polio, but it didn’t stop me from participating in sports, such as cricket and javelin throw,” said Prithvi Singh Choudhary, captain of the Rajasthan team.

Choudhary, 35, managed to put together a team at a short notice. The team includes players from Alwar, Bharatpur, Banswara and Phulera.

“We had to do some hard training; all the players have shown enthusiasm. But lack of support from the government is a big hindrance. A quality wheelchair used for playing cricket costs around ₹35,000. Most people don’t have the money to buy it,” said Choudhary.

Other players also complained about lack of facilities. “I am enjoying wheelchair cricket and it is my dream to be part of the Indian team. A little support from the establishment will go a long way in giving India a strong wheelchair cricket team,” said Mohan Singh, 22, the wicketkeeper of the Rajasthan team.