Meenakshi Lekhi appointed chairperson of Divyang Cricket Control Board of India

Agra: Former Union minister and former MP Meenakshi Lekhi has been appointed chairperson of the Divyang Cricket Control Board of India (DCCBI), the organisation overseeing the Indian Divyang Cricket Team and Indian Wheelchair Cricket Team.

The announcement was made during a Divyang Cricket Award ceremony in Agra, where Lekhi was formally entrusted with the responsibility. Addressing players, officials and organisers, she said she would discharge the role with dedication and work towards taking divyang cricket to new heights at both the national and international levels.

Lekhi urged players to draw inspiration from the life of Lord Ram, highlighting the importance of duty, perseverance and integrity. She said a person's actions ultimately shape the path ahead and encouraged the players to continue performing their responsibilities with honesty and commitment.

She also stressed that the achievements and struggles of divyang athletes should be a source of pride for the country. According to Lekhi, the responsibility towards players with disabilities extends beyond the sporting arena, with society needing to ensure that they receive respect, opportunities and better prospects for the future.

DCCBI president Mukesh Kanchan welcomed Lekhi's appointment, saying the board needed a leader who could motivate players to work hard, overcome challenges and focus on their goals. He expressed confidence that her guidance would help divyang cricket reach new heights.

Dr Bhagwan Talware, president of the Wheelchair Unit, said Lekhi's experience, leadership abilities and social commitment would provide a new direction and greater strength to divyang cricket.

The board is also seeking to expand international opportunities. It is working towards organising a triangular divyang cricket series involving India, Sri Lanka and Nepal in Mumbai. The proposed tournament would give players from all three countries an opportunity to showcase their talent on an international platform.

Alongside Lekhi's appointment, the board announced several other office-bearers, including Neeraj Ashok Sharma as senior vice-chairperson, Khalid Abbas as chief operating officer, Neeraj Sharma as director of finance and former Rajasthan Royals IPL player Ajit Chandela as director of technical affairs.

The DCCBI said its broader objective is to provide players with disabilities greater respect, opportunities and a stronger platform while helping them progress at national and international levels.