Cricketer Anaya Bangar has said that she has already provided all evidence of not having any unfair advantage over women’s cricketers to Cricket Australia and anyone who has a problem or doubts over it needs to ‘educate’ themselves.
Anaya, who underwent gender-affirming surgery in March this year, is eligible to play community cricket across Australia. But her eligibility for elite-level cricket from March 2027 will remain subject to Cricket Australia’s policy requirements.
On the cusp of returning to competitive cricket, Anaya remains unfazed by the scepticism and criticism surrounding her eligibility, believing that a little ‘education’ could help change people’s views.
“I think people who want to raise their voice against it should actually
educate themselves on this topic and I have already provided the necessary information in terms of not having any unfair advantage and also complying with the guidelines set by Cricket Australia,” Anaya said while speaking to PTI.
“If anyone’s personal opinion is in that sort of way, I hope they go and educate themselves,” Anaya added.
Still recovering from the effects of her surgery, Anaya approached Cricket Australia Head of Integrity Jacqui Partridge in June after learning about the governing body’s policy allowing transgender players to participate in women’s cricket.
The process that followed was smooth and swift, unlike her experience with BCCI, which didn’t respond to her request. Anaya said that she hoped the Indian board would formulate a policy for the future.
“It’s very disappointing and heartbreaking that I was served with silence. I knew that transitioning was going to make me steer away from cricket. I hope that BCCI is open to this and tries to form policies surrounding this topic, since I am the first case in India,” Anaya said.
“I would be happy to be a part of the team and provide my insights and guidance throughout my whole journey and what would work best for our country and women’s sport in the future,” Anaya added.
