Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon has made a heart-welcoming gesture as he donated three bats at the National Cricket Inclusion Championships (NCIC) which also include bats signed by Indian players Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah.
NCIC is an organization that supports disabled cricketers in Australia and Lyon is the ambassador of it. Lyon, being a proud ambassador for NCIC, emphasized the pivotal role of athletes as role models.
Speaking to Cricket Australia after interacting with cricketers with intellectual disabilities during a recent net session, he stated, “The position we’re in as role models, if we can inspire boys and girls to go out there and play this beautiful game, which I believe is a sport for all, then it’s worth it.”
NCIC aims to create a platform for disabled cricketers in Australia offering opportunities to showcase talents.
Lyon was positive about the potential of these emerging players remarking. “These guys are representing South Australia up in Brisbane, so in my eyes, they are playing state cricket and hopefully they can put their hands up for international selection in the Australian ID team.”
The tournament is set to played between January 19 – 25, 2025 at Marchant Park. The event will feature 22 teams representing various states and territories. Five divisions will be contested.
Blind & Low Vision Mixed, Blind & Low Vision Women’s, Cricketers with an Intellectual Disability, Deaf & Hard of Hearing Men, and Deaf & Hard of Hearing Women’s categories.
Meanwhile, Joel Morrison Cricket Australia’s General Manager for Events & Operations, lauded the NCIC stating, “The National Cricket Inclusion Championships are a great event that showcases the best Australian cricketers with a disability, and Cricket Australia’s mission to be a sport for all.”
He expressed excitement for the developments in 2025, particularly the inclusion of a full week dedicated to blind and low vision women’s games, building upon last year’s successful exhibition.
“This is a testament to the growing passion for inclusive cricket across the country, and we are excited to see these incredible athletes inspire the next generation while showcasing their talents on a national stage,” Joel Morrison added.
