The Indian deaf Cricket team won the inaugural ADCA T20I Asia Cup against Sri Lanka by six wickets in Colombo on Wednesday. India successfully chased down Sri Lanka’s target, marking their first continental win in deaf cricket. Sai Akash played a key role by scoring 27 runs off 14 balls and taking two wickets, earning him the Player of the Match award.
India’s journey to the title included a four-wicket win against Sri Lanka in their first match, followed by a 10-wicket victory over Nepal. These wins set a strong foundation for a competitive round-robin stage where Sri Lanka also showed their strength.
Sri Lanka Fights Back but Falls Short
Sri Lanka managed a six-wicket win over Nepal in their third match, later winning by 157 runs against Nepal again. In a tightly contested game with India, they lost by just one run. However, in the final, India’s batting stood strong under pressure.
Gimadu L Malkam from Sri Lanka was named the best batter and Player of the Series with 196 runs in total. Gihan Lasidu D’ Silva was recognized as the best bowler for taking 10 wickets, showcasing Sri Lanka’s talent even in defeat.
Individual Brilliance and Historic Achievement
India secured their place in the final with a convincing nine-wicket win over Nepal in their second-last match. Their steady batting, smart bowling, and disciplined fielding contributed to the title win.
Sai Akash’s performance in the final, along with India’s consistent teamwork, highlights the rising standard of deaf cricket in the region. With the ADCA T20I Asia Cup concluded, India sets a new standard for future tournaments. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s standout players, L Malkam and D’ Silva, have bolstered their reputations despite the loss.
The Indian deaf cricket team now holds the honor of winning the first-ever ADCA T20I Asia Cup, marking a significant milestone in inclusive cricket.
