Aryan to Anaya: Former cricketer Sanjay Bangar’s child reveals her transformation and challenges in cricket

Team Udayavani, Nov 11, 2024, 12:18 PM IST

Former cricketer and team India coach Sanjay Bangar’s son Aryan has made headlines after announcing a significant personal transformation on social media.

Aryan, now known as Anaya, revealed her 10-month journey through hormone therapy on Instagram, where she shared her emotional shift from an aspiring male cricketer to a transgender woman navigating new challenges within the sport.

In an Instagram post, Anaya shared, “From a young age, cricket has been integral to my life. Watching my father represent and coach India fueled my dream to one day follow his path. Cricket became my love, ambition, and future. I dedicated myself to mastering the game, aiming to represent my country.”

However, this journey has taken an unexpected turn.

“As a trans woman undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT), my body has changed. The strength, muscle memory, and athletic ability I depended on are fading. It’s heartbreaking to feel the game I’ve cherished slipping away,” Anaya expressed.

 

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A post shared by Anaya Bangar (@anayabangar)

Currently residing in Manchester, England, Anaya remains active in cricket, playing for a county team there, although the specific club remains undisclosed. According to her social media updates, she recently scored an impressive 145 runs in a match, showcasing her resilience and dedication to the game.

However, Anaya’s journey as a trans woman in cricket faces an uncertain future. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) recently announced that, starting in 2025, transgender women who have experienced male puberty will be restricted from competing in elite women’s domestic cricket.

This policy will also apply to the prestigious women’s competitions, including The Hundred. While transgender women will still be allowed to participate in tier-three domestic leagues and recreational cricket, the top two tiers will remain out of reach.

Anaya’s story has resonated widely, sparking conversations on the evolving landscape of sports and inclusion for transgender athletes. Her journey highlights the personal sacrifices and ongoing struggles faced by transgender individuals in competitive sports.