Meenakshi Lekhi takes charge of DCCBI

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

The appointment was announced at a Divyang Cricket Award ceremony in Agra, where Lekhi was formally entrusted with the responsibility. Addressing players, officials and organisers, she said she would carry out the role with dedication and work to take divyang cricket to greater heights in India and abroad.

Lekhi calls for respect and opportunity

Lekhi urged players to draw inspiration from the life of Lord Ram, citing duty, perseverance and integrity. She said an individual’s actions shape the path ahead and encouraged athletes to perform their responsibilities with honesty and commitment.

She also said the achievements and struggles of athletes with disabilities should be a source of pride for the country. According to Lekhi, support for players with disabilities must extend beyond sport, with society ensuring they receive respect, meaningful opportunities and better prospects for the future.

“I would discharge the role with dedication and work towards taking divyang cricket to new heights at both the national and international levels,” Lekhi said while addressing the gathering.

Board announces new office-bearers and international plans

DCCBI president Mukesh Kanchan welcomed Lekhi’s appointment, saying the board needed a leader capable of motivating players to work hard, overcome challenges and remain focused on their goals. Dr Bhagwan Talware, president of the Wheelchair Unit, said Lekhi’s experience, leadership and social commitment could give divyang cricket a new direction and greater strength.

The board is also working on a proposed triangular divyang cricket series involving India, Sri Lanka and Nepal in Mumbai. The tournament would provide players from the three countries with an international platform to showcase their talent.

Alongside Lekhi’s appointment, the DCCBI named Neeraj Ashok Sharma as senior vice-chairperson, Khalid Abbas as chief operating officer and Neeraj Sharma as director of finance. Former Rajasthan Royals IPL player Ajit Chandela was appointed director of technical affairs.

The board said its wider objective is to secure greater respect, opportunities and a stronger competitive platform for players with disabilities, helping them progress at both national and international levels.