IWPL-7 SET TO REWRITE ANOTHER INSPIRING CHAPTER

Preparations are in full swing for the seventh edition of the Indian Wheelchair Cricket  Premier League (IWPL-7) which is set to return with renewed energy, larger participation and growing national recognition. The spotlight is once again shining on the remarkable talent of wheelchair cricketers. Organised by the Ek Mutthi Trust, IWPL has evolved into one of India’s most inspiring sporting platforms for differently-abled athletes. Since its launch in 2018, the tournament has steadily grown from a modest initiative into a major event promoting inclusivity, equality and sporting excellence. This year’s IWPL-7 is expected to be the biggest edition so far, featuring eight teams from different states and some of the finest wheelchair cricketers from across the country. Organisers are making elaborate preparations to ensure better facilities, smoother management, enhanced player support and wider audience outreach.

A major development this year is the collaboration with the WheelChair Cricket Association of India (WCAI), which is expected to provide stronger structure, professional opportunities and greater visibility to wheelchair cricket at the national level. The tournament is also likely to receive significant media attention, with major matches including the opening fixture, semi-finals and final expected to be telecast live on DD Sports. Additionally, all matches are proposed to be streamed online, enabling audiences across the country to witness the inspiring performances and journeys of the players. Continuing a popular tradition, the event will begin with a special exhibition match between the Women’s Cricket team and wheelchair cricketers - a symbolic gesture promoting inclusion, unity and mutual respect through sports. “The preparations for IWPL-7 are progressing rapidly and the enthusiasm this year is remarkable,” said Mukesh Sinha. “The objective of IWPL is not only to organise cricket tournaments but also to create opportunities and inspire society to look beyond disability. Every player participating here carries a story of courage and determination.” Over the years, IWPL has become far more than a cricket tournament. It has emerged as a platform of hope and recognition for wheelchair athletes who continue to overcome social and physical barriers through their passion for sports. As the countdown begins, IWPL-7 is once again ready to remind the nation that cricket belongs to everyone and that true strength lies not in physical ability, but in the spirit to keep fighting and moving forward.

The eight teams participating and their captains are -

- Chennai Cholas – Santhosh Govindan

- M P Mavericks – Dharamveer Pal

- Hydrabad Hawks – Arun John

- Rajasthani Rajwade – Naresh Ariya

- J &K Jaguars – Romaisar Wani

- Delhi Dynamos– Saurabh Malik

- Maharashtra Marathas – Omkar Roundale

- Uttar Pradesh Heroes – Manoj Parmar