T20 tournament for physically disabled in Dhaka from September 2

The first ever international cricket tournament for physically disabled individuals will be organized in Dhaka from September 2.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in close partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP) will host the tournament titled ‘ICRC International T20 Cricket Tournament’ for people with physical disabilities.

Organizers confirmed the participation of Afghanistan, England, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh in the five-nation T20 competition.

The opening match between Bangladesh against England will take place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on September 2.

Remaining T20 matches and the closing ceremony will be held at BKSP.

“There should be no barrier to people living with disability to play and enjoy the most popular sports in Bangladesh which is cricket,” Head of Delegation, ICRC, Christine Cipolla told UNB.

She said ICRC is grateful for the continued support that they have received from the Ministry of Youth and Sports, BCB and BKSP academy.

ICRC Communication Delegate Michael Kifle said people with physical disabilities often face societal barriers, evoking negative perceptions and discrimination.

“In order to promote and support sport activities for physically disabled persons in Bangladesh, ICRC has taken this initiative,” said Michael Kifle.

Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, captain of Bangladesh National Cricket Team is associated with this tournament as the Brand Ambassador and will endorse the BCB Physically Challenged Cricket Team.

He will promote the social inclusion of People with Disabilities (PwDs) through participation in sports.