Wadekar’s death leaves India’s physically disabled cricketers orphaned, hope Sachin will fill his shoes

Parasports

The death of Ajit Wadekar has left India’s physically disabled cricketers at the crossroads. It was Wadekar who, 30 years ago, formed the All-India Cricket Association for Physically Challenged (AICAPC). This was the first formal body for disabled cricketers, and the mission was to ensure equal opportunities for disabled cricketers.

Since then the team has won considerable success. India’s team of physically disabled cricketers have beaten Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Singapore. They have also played in the World Cup.

Yet, the AICAPC is yet to be recognised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Now after Wadekar’s death, they are worried about the future as Wadekar used to push for recognition from the BCCI as well a funds for their progress.

Wadekar, who was one of India’s most successful coaches, was constantly in touch with the BCCI to push for the cause of the physically disabled players. This helped them to organise funds for tournaments.

The physically disabled cricketers are hoping that another prominent player will come to their support. They are hoping that Sachin Tendulkar will fill those shoes. Sachin was close to Wadekar so they are hoping to persuade him to take on the charge.

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