British Deputy High Commission holds panel discussion aimed at harnessing leadership abilities of disabled cricketers

The event focused on 'Amplifying leadership in Disability Cricket' brought together differently abled cricketers from the West Bengal Cricket Association for Differently Abled.

Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to East and Northeast India (R) speaking at the panel discussion | Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS

The panel discussion gave the spotlight on harnessing the leadership potential of differently abled cricketers, celebrating inclusion, resilience and the power of sport.

Speaking in the panel discussion, Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to East and Northeast India talked about the challenges disabled cricketers face in India and detailed how such a situation can be improved.

Fleming said, "The problem with India is the raw stigma attached to it. This is why sharing some of the stories from other parts of the world is also important... We have 250 offices around the world. We can have people online from any other country and have them share their inspiring stories if we can make those connections.

"So that kind of activity, using our social media effectively as one can, trying to get stories in the press are important. The stories in the press must talk about the truth, challenges and stigma because the situation is not going to change unless we confront the issues."

Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to East and Northeast India | Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS

Among various ways to go through the challengers, one remains the top priority, as Fleming pointed out, which is "allies".

"We need more allies, I think that's the topliner," said the British Deputy High Commissioner.

The event served as a powerful platform to discuss the challenges and opportunities in disability cricket and the role of sports in fostering accessibility and equal opportunities.

Jane Powell, Performance Manager, Disability Cricket, England and Wales Cricket Board and Rob Tipping, Head of Cricket Programmes, Lord’s Taverners joined online from London and highlighted the various disability cricket initiatives that they have been undertaking to raise awareness of this game.

Speaking on behalf of Rotary Club of Calcutta Metro City, Subhojit Roy reaffirmed Rotary's unwavering commitment to inclusion and the mainstreaming of differently-abled sportspeople. He emphasized the need for a level playing field, increased exposure, and resources to support these athletes.

"Rotary’s focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) aligns perfectly with the objectives of this initiative. We hope prominent cricketing leagues, such as the Bengal Pro T20 League, will support and promote Disability Cricket, recognizing its potential to inspire and unite communities," he said.

Subhojit Roy from Rotary Club of Calcutta Metro City felicitating one of the cricketers | Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS

Reetasri Ghosh, Vice-President, Indo-British Scholars' Association said: “Disabled cricketers are truly redefining leadership on the field. From overcoming physical challenges to leading their teams to victory, these players are truly role models for everyone. Their dedication to the sport and their ability to inspire others is indeed commendable.

Social responsibility is at the core of many of the activities of IBSA. We are delighted to be joining hands with the British Deputy High Commission, Rotary and Connections to be recognising and spreading awareness about the importance of inclusivity in sports.”