Odisha’s Para Cricketer Defies Odds, Earns India Call-Up for Sri Lanka Tournament
Driven by a strong desire to excel, Laxman devoted himself to the game and steadily progressed through the ranks. His dedication eventually earned him a place in the national setup.
Bhubaneswar: Overcoming physical disability and financial hardship, a young para-cricketer from Odisha's Ganjam district has secured a place in the Indian Para Sitting Cricket Team and is set to represent the country at an international tournament in Sri Lanka later this month.
Kota Laxman, a resident of Jhatipadar village under Chikiti block, has emerged as an inspiring example of determination and perseverance. Born with disabilities affecting both his legs, Laxman faced mobility challenges from an early age but never allowed them to come in the way of his passion for cricket.
Despite difficulties in walking, he continued playing the sport with friends and nurtured his dream of representing the country. His journey took a decisive turn after he was introduced to Para Sitting Cricket, a format designed for differently-abled athletes.
Driven by a strong desire to excel, Laxman devoted himself to the game and steadily progressed through the ranks. His dedication eventually earned him a place in the national setup.
The road to success, however, was far from smooth. Coming from a financially struggling family, Laxman has pursued his sporting ambitions with limited resources. His mother works as a daily wage labourer and is the primary source of income for the family. To attend training sessions, he regularly travels nearly three kilometres from his village to a nearby playground.
Speaking to reporters, Laxman recalled his journey in the sport. “I have been playing cricket since childhood. In 2023, I participated in a tournament in Chennai. In 2025, I returned there for another sitting cricket competition and performed as a wicketkeeper-batsman. I won the 'Man of the Match' and 'Man of the Series' awards and was later selected for the India 'A' team, where I served as vice-captain," he said.
Expressing confidence ahead of the Sri Lanka tournament, Laxman said he hopes to deliver a strong performance for the country.
Laxman’s achievement has brought pride to his village and district, with residents and well-wishers rallying behind him. The young man’s journey from a remote village in Odisha to the international sporting arena, as Prakash Panigrahi, a local development activist, said — reflected the power of resilience and determination in overcoming adversity.
