EXCITEMENT BUILDS FOR GRAND IWPL-7 CELEBRATION

The sound of cheering crowds, the echo of spinning wheels racing across the field and the spirit of determination stronger than ever are set to return as preparations gather momentum for the seventh edition of the Indian Wheelchair Cricket Premier League (IWPL-7). What began as a humble initiative to provide recognition to wheelchair cricketers has today transformed into one of India’s most admired platforms celebrating inclusivity, courage and sporting excellence. Organised by the Ek Mutthi Trust, IWPL has steadily emerged as a symbol of empowerment through sports. Inspired by the excitement and competitive spirit of the Indian Premier Cricket League, the tournament was launched in 2018 with a vision to create opportunities for wheelchair cricketers who long remained outside mainstream sporting recognition. Over the years, the league has captured national attention for not just the quality of cricket on display, but for the extraordinary resilience and determination of its players.
 This year, IWPL-7 promises to be its grandest edition yet. Eight teams from different states are expected to participate, bringing together some of the country’s finest wheelchair cricketers. Organisers are working extensively to ensure improved facilities, better management and a wider outreach so that the tournament reaches audiences across India. Adding further strength to this year’s edition is IWPL’s collaboration with the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI), an organisation associated with the national structure for differently abled cricket. The partnership is expected to enhance professionalism, improve scouting opportunities and provide greater national recognition to wheelchair cricket and its athletes.
In another major development, key matches including the opening fixture, semi-finals and final are expected to receive live coverage on DD Sports, while all tournament matches are proposed to be streamed online. The move is expected to bring the inspiring stories and performances of wheelchair cricketers into homes across the country, allowing thousands to witness the passion and competitive spirit of the players.
Continuing its much-loved tradition, the tournament will begin with a special exhibition match between the Delhi Police team and wheelchair cricketers - a symbolic gesture celebrating inclusion, unity and mutual respect through sports.
Mukesh Sinha, the driving force behind IWPL, said, “The excitement around IWPL-7 is building rapidly and preparations are in full swing. Every year the tournament grows bigger in terms of participation, support and recognition. Our aim is not just to organise cricket matches but to create a movement that inspires society to look beyond disability and recognise talent, determination and human spirit. This edition will be more professional, more inclusive and more impactful than ever before.” As the countdown to IWPL-7 begins, the league once again stands ready to prove that cricket is not merely a game, but a powerful medium of equality, dignity and hope.

Profile of  Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI)
The Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI) is a premier organization committed to the growth, development and promotion of cricket for differently abled athletes across India. Established with the vision of creating equal opportunities in sports, DCCI serves as a unified platform for cricketers with physical, hearing, intellectual and locomotor disabilities, enabling them to pursue the sport professionally and competitively. Driven by the values of inclusivity, empowerment and excellence, DCCI works extensively to identify and nurture talented players from every corner of the country. Through structured coaching programs, domestic tournaments, inter-state championships, talent hunts and national selection camps, the council provides aspiring cricketers with opportunities to showcase their skills and advance to higher levels of competition. Over the years, DCCI has played a transformative role in strengthening disability cricket in India. The organization has not only created pathways for sporting success but has also helped challenge social stereotypes associated with disability. By promoting discipline, teamwork, confidence and sportsmanship, DCCI continues to inspire thousands of athletes and their families across the nation. Several players associated with DCCI have proudly represented India in international disability cricket tournaments, bringing laurels to the country through their remarkable performances, determination and resilience on the global stage. Their achievements stand as a testament to the power of perseverance and the spirit of inclusive sports. Beyond cricketing events, DCCI actively collaborates with sports bodies, corporate partners, educational institutions and social organizations to improve infrastructure, training facilities, accessibility and support systems for differently abled players. The council remains dedicated to creating a sustainable and inclusive sporting ecosystem where talent is recognized beyond limitations.  Today, DCCI stands as a symbol of equality, opportunity and resilience, continuously working towards building a future where every aspiring cricketer, regardless of ability, receives the platform, recognition and encouragement needed to achieve their dreams and contribute to the growth of inclusive cricket in India

 

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