The Indian Deaf Cricket Team had a commanding tour of South Africa, winning all three Twenty20 International games and both One Day International games against the home side. The games were held at the Sinoville Cricket Club, where the visiting team beat South Africa in every aspect.
The IDCA organized the series, which is BCCI-backed and recognized by the Deaf International Cricket Council and the Asian Deaf Cricket Association.
In the first match of the T20I series, India chased down 108 to win by three wickets, and in the second game, they chased down 109 to win by eight wickets. India scored 157/3 in the third T20I and defeated South Africa by 72 runs, scoring only 85.
India maintained their impressive streak in the ODI series. They easily pursued 118 in the first ODI, winning by seven wickets. India completed the 2-0 sweep by defeating South Africa in a tight match in the second ODI, chasing 203 and winning by one wicket.
Virender Singh gave the best performance of the entire series. He was named Player of the Series in both formats and also ended up as the top batter and bowler in the T20Is, as well as winning the best bowler title in ODIs. In the ODI series, Sai Akash was selected as the top batsman.
The IDCA officers, support partners, and both teams were present at the closing event. In a special moment, team reps, including captain Virender Singh and IDCA President Sumit Jain, handed Acting High Commissioner Banu Prakash a signed jersey and hat as a token of respect and unity.
Sumit Jain, President of IDCA, commented on the victory, stating that our players were well-prepared and thrilled for the competition. They were prepared to demonstrate their abilities and battle for the prestigious title. The team’s outstanding performance in the series demonstrated that they made every effort to ensure that the trophy stays in India.
On the other hand, IDCA CEO Roma Balwani stated that organizing the series in Pretoria enhances ties between India and South Africa and acknowledges deaf cricket as a competitive and motivating sport. This sort of event goes beyond the sport itself, fostering social bonds via sport and honoring common ideals.
The group also thanked Jay Shah, the head of the ICC and the Board of Control for Cricket in India, for his backing of programs that promote cricket for people with disabilities.