New Delhi: In a groundbreaking move for women's sports, the Indian women's deaf cricket team is preparing to make its international debut with a T20 tour in Sri Lanka. Scheduled from July 7 to July 13, the team will play a five-match series at the De Soysa Park International Cricket Stadium in Moratuwa.

The 15-member squad will be led by wicketkeeper Kajal Dhawan, who expressed her excitement about this historic opportunity. 'It’s an honor to lead my team on this journey. We are all ready to showcase our skills and make our country proud,' Dhawan said in a recent press release.

Vice-captain Needa Zabi Shaikh has also been pivotal in preparing the team for this milestone. She emphasized the importance of this tour, stating, 'This is not just a tournament for us; it's a chance to break barriers and inspire other athletes with disabilities.' The team has been training diligently, honing their skills to compete at the international level.

The series in Sri Lanka will not only serve as a platform for the players but also aims to promote deaf cricket on a global stage. The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) is hopeful that the visibility gained from this tour will encourage more participation in the sport among individuals with hearing impairments.

Looking ahead, the IDCA also announced plans for a T20I Tri-Series in India next March, featuring teams from Sri Lanka and Trinidad & Tobago. This initiative is part of a broader effort to develop women's deaf cricket and provide more competitive opportunities for these athletes.

The Indian women's deaf cricket team's journey is more than just about cricket; it symbolizes empowerment, determination, and the breaking of stereotypes. As they embark on this historical tour, all eyes will be on them to see how they perform and pave the way for future generations of athletes.