In a significant appeal to the cricketing world, Anaya Bangar, the daughter of former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar, has called upon the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to support the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's cricket. Currently, there is a ban on transgender participation in women's cricket, a decision that was enforced during an ICC board meeting after the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Anaya has made headlines by sharing an in-depth, eight-page scientific report that details her journey as a transgender athlete. This report, which she plans to submit to both the ICC and BCCI, outlines the physiological assessments she has undergone since starting hormone therapy. “For the first time, I am sharing the scientific report that documents my journey as a trans woman athlete,” Anaya stated. “Over the past year, I’ve undergone structured physiological assessments. This report captures the real, measurable impact of my transition, not opinions, not assumptions, but data.”

The 23-year-old athlete, who was born male and later transitioned to female, has been vocal about her experiences and the scientific backing of her eligibility to compete. Her Instagram platform recently featured a video where she shared test reports demonstrating her progress and transitions. Anaya collaborated with Manchester Metropolitan University after completing one year of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). The tests collected data on critical parameters such as muscle power, endurance, glucose levels, and oxygen consumption, and compared her metrics with those of cisgender female athletes. The results showed that her measurements fell within the norms established for cisgender female competitors.

“Science says that I am eligible for women's cricket. Now the question is whether the world is ready to hear the truth or not?” Anaya challenged the cricketing community, emphasizing her hope that her findings will foster a constructive dialogue rather than a divisive one. Her intention is clear; she aims to promote understanding and acceptance of transgender athletes in sports.

Anaya's father, Sanjay Bangar, has a rich history in Indian cricket, having played 12 Test matches and 15 One Day Internationals for the national team. Following his playing career, he served as the batting coach for the Indian cricket team from 2014 until 2019, contributing significantly to the development of many players. The support from her father and her scientific approach to the discussion surrounding transgender athletes highlight the growing movement for inclusivity in sports.