Anaya Bangar has called on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to consider adopting a policy similar to Cricket Australia’s framework for transgender and gender-diverse cricketers after receiving approval to compete in women’s cricket from March 2027.
The 25-year-old, daughter of former India cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar, was granted eligibility by Cricket Australia under its transgender and gender-diverse player policy following an extensive assessment process.
Hopes for Greater Inclusion in India
As she prepares to move to Australia to begin cricket training, Anaya said she hopes her approval will encourage Indian cricket authorities to introduce a similar pathway for transgender athletes.
“If the BCCI can follow what Australia has done, that would be a wonderful thing,” Anaya said.
She believes a clear eligibility process would allow transgender cricketers in India to pursue opportunities in women’s cricket while following appropriate regulations.
Responds to Criticism
Anaya’s approval attracted criticism from some within the cricket community, including South Africa all-rounder Marizanne Kapp, who questioned Cricket Australia’s decision.
Rather than taking offence, Anaya said she understood why concerns had been raised but stressed that her eligibility was supported by scientific testing.
“I think I understand the place where she’s coming from,” she said.
She explained that researchers from the Manchester University Institute of Sport monitored her athletic performance during a 12-week assessment after a year of hormone replacement therapy.
“That test concluded that my physical parameters fall within the cisgender female athlete range.”
Scientific Assessment Behind the Decision
Anaya said Cricket Australia’s approval followed comprehensive medical and scientific evaluations rather than being granted automatically.
“So, in terms of unfair advantage, I already have scientific evidence backing my case,” she said.
She added that after undergoing gender-affirming surgery, her body no longer produces testosterone and that her hormone levels currently measure 0.6 nanomoles.
“My body doesn’t produce testosterone anymore since I’ve had the surgery. My testosterone levels are 0.6 nanomoles.”
Anaya also described the physical changes she has experienced during her transition.
“I have been experiencing bone density loss. I can literally feel my bones aching. I can feel my muscle mass reducing and my stamina levels decreasing. I can’t work out the same as I used to.”
She believes eligibility decisions should be made individually rather than applying a single rule to every athlete.
“I would say it needs to be on a case-by-case basis, because not all trans women have an unfair advantage.”
Personal Journey
Anaya revealed that her transition was emotionally and financially challenging.
She said her family initially struggled to accept her decision, leaving her without financial support for gender-affirming procedures.
“I tried my hardest to get some therapy, but I wasn’t getting any support for surgeries.”
According to Anaya, she funded her first two surgeries through social media brand collaborations before completing her transition earlier this year.
Looking Ahead
Anaya previously claimed she contacted the BCCI in 2025 seeking clarification on whether transgender athletes could participate in women’s cricket in India but did not receive a response.
After receiving approval from Cricket Australia, she will become eligible to compete in Australian women’s cricket from March 2027, subject to normal selection processes.
Her immediate focus is on preparing for domestic cricket in Australia, where she hopes strong performances could eventually open opportunities at higher levels, including the Women’s Big Bash League.
