In a groundbreaking move, 23-year-old Anaya Bangar, the daughter of former Indian cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar, has officially appealed to the BCCI and ICC for the inclusion of transgender players in women’s cricket. Her powerful plea comes after completing gender affirmation, backed by scientific data she believes proves her eligibility.
Anaya, who transitioned from male to female in November 2024, shared a video on Instagram detailing her journey. She revealed that after completing hormone replacement therapy, Manchester University conducted comprehensive tests on her, measuring muscle strength, immunity, glucose, and oxygen levels. These results were then compared with those of cisgender female athletes.
The report concluded there were no significant differences between her physiological markers and those of female athletes, leading Anaya to pose a direct question: “Is the world ready to accept the truth?” She asserts that science has validated her right to play women’s cricket and has expressed her willingness to present this report to both the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC), aiming to dispel fear and promote understanding.
This bold move by Anaya comes in defiance of current regulations. The ICC board, during a meeting following the 2023 Cricket World Cup, implemented a ban on transgender cricketers participating in women’s cricket. Anaya underwent hormonal replacement therapy and gender affirmation surgery last year and is currently residing in the United Kingdom, leading this charge for greater inclusivity in the sport.
