Delhi: The way has been opened for Ananya Bangar, associated with Indian cricket, to return to the cricket field. Former Mumbai Under-19 cricketer Ananya has been approved by Cricket Australia to play in women's community cricket matches. This is a very special moment for her, because after the gender affirming surgery, the biggest question before her was whether she would be able to play cricket again.
After this decision of Cricket Australia, Ananya can participate in premier cricket competitions in Australia. If she fulfills all the further necessary conditions, then her path to elite cricket can also be opened from March 2027. This means that in future she can also participate in the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL).
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Blood test will have to be given as soon as you reach Australia
Cricket Australia has given this information to Ananya through email. According to this, to play in elite cricket from March 2027, he will have to undergo a blood test after reaching Australia.
In this test it will be seen whether their serum testosterone level is less than 10 nmol/L or not. Apart from this, they will also have to fulfill other eligibility conditions prescribed in Cricket Australia's Transgender and Gender Diversity Policy.
Cricket Australia has also made it clear that till March 2027, Ananya can play in the premier cricket competition of any state or territory of Australia. These competitions are considered community cricket, hence the restrictions related to elite cricket will not apply to them.
Why is this decision special for Ananya?
Ananya herself admitted that at one time she did not believe that she would be able to play cricket again. Now Cricket Australia's decision has revived this dream for him.
Ananya said that due to the policies adopted by Cricket Australia regarding trans women in the women's game, this is a big achievement not only for her but also for other players who find themselves in a situation of choosing between sport and gender transition.
To prove her eligibility, Ananya had to submit a report from Manchester University along with medical records related to blood and testosterone.
Now Ananya is looking for a club
Currently, Ananya is recovering from gender affirming surgery and is looking for a club for herself in Australia. After the approval of Cricket Australia, now his next goal is to return to the field.
If she fulfills the necessary medical tests and other eligibility conditions, then the opportunity to play in elite cricket may open for her after March 2027. In such a situation, the dream of playing in WBBL can also be fulfilled in future.
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Ananya's story is not just about her return to cricket. This is the story of a player who, instead of leaving his game, has chosen to return to the field once again.