Hilal Ahmad Wani: The Deaf Cricketer from Kashmir Who Conquered Dubai’s Cricket Grounds
In the scenic valleys of Kashmir, where talent often blooms in silence, Hilal Ahmad Wani stands tall as a symbol of resilience and unshakeable spirit. Today, he’s a recognised face in international deaf cricket, having played for the Dubai Cricket Association, but his journey is nothing short of extraordinary.
Hilal was born as a normal child. In his early months, there was no sign of disability. But at the age of one, tragedy struck. After suffering from typhoid, he experienced a serious vein injury that led to complete hearing loss. From that moment, the world fell silent for him. What followed was a life of struggle, learning sign language, adjusting to a world that didn’t always understand him, and finding a way to express himself without words.
But where many would have given up, Hilal found his strength—in cricket.
Cricket wasn’t just a sport for him; it became his language. He started playing in local streets, impressing people with his sharp reflexes and calm focus. Soon, his talent caught the attention of the Deaf and Dumb Cricket Association, where he was given a platform to shine. And shine he did.
Through years of hard work, practice, and pure dedication, Hilal earned a spot in the Dubai Cricket Association’s deaf cricket team, representing on international grounds with players from different countries. His performance was remarkable—scoring runs, saving boundaries, and playing with unmatched discipline.
Hilal has earned several awards and recognitions, not just for his performance but for his courage and determination. From being a child who couldn’t hear the sound of a cricket ball hitting the bat to becoming a player who lets his bat speak for him, his journey is truly inspiring.
Today, Hilal is more than just a cricketer—he is a role model for thousands of specially abled youth who dare to dream. He often says through signs and expressions, “I may not hear the crowd, but I can feel their energy. And I play for that.”
In a society where differently-abled individuals are often overlooked, Hilal has created a place for himself—not out of sympathy, but through merit. His silence has become his strength, and his cricketing journey continues to inspire.
In a region where opportunities for people like him are rare, he’s become a symbol of what’s possible with resilience.
He often says through signs and expressions:
“Main nahi sun sakta, lekin meri mehnat ko duniya dekh sakti hai.”
(“I may not be able to hear, but the world can see my hard work.”)
Final Word
Hilal Ahmad Wani’s story is not just about cricket—it’s about courage, determination, and breaking the silence of disability with the noise of success. He is a reminder that talent knows no boundaries and that physical limitations can never cage a free spirit.
As he continues his journey on and off the field, Hilal remains a shining example of what it truly means to turn pain into power.
