In a world where sport is often touted as the great equalizer, Anaya Bangar’s journey exposes the harsh reality many transgender individuals face—even in the so-called “gentleman’s game.”
Anaya Bangar, formerly Aryan, is the daughter of former India cricketer and national batting coach Sanjay Bangar. She bravely shared her transition story a few months ago, speaking candidly about the emotional, physical, and professional hurdles she faced after undergoing gender-affirming surgery. But now, in a recent interview with Lallantop, she has shed light on the darker side of life after transitioning.
“There has been support and there has been harassment as well,” said Anaya.
The harassment, she revealed, included unsolicited nude pictures sent by certain cricketers, and even direct requests for sexual favors. She recalled a specific disturbing incident where a senior cricketer propositioned her after learning about her gender transition.
“I told a veteran cricketer about my situation. He said, ‘Let’s go in the car, I want to sleep with you,’” Anaya revealed.
These experiences, though harrowing, are unfortunately not isolated. They reflect the systemic challenges and discrimination trans individuals often endure — even in spaces that pride themselves on sportsmanship and inclusivity.
Anaya, like her father, is also a cricketer. She has played for Islam Gymkhana in local Mumbai cricket and represented Hinckley Cricket Club in Leicestershire. Yet, despite her passion and dedication, institutional policies have slammed the door shut on her professional dreams.
In November 2023, the International Cricket Council (ICC) issued a blanket ban on transgender women who have experienced male puberty from participating in international women’s cricket. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) soon followed, announcing that from 2025, trans women would be barred from elite domestic women’s cricket.
These rulings came as a crushing blow to Anaya and many like her. She took to social media to voice her disappointment, calling the policies discriminatory and disheartening.
Despite the adversity, Anaya continues to speak up — not just for herself but for an entire community seeking acceptance in sport. Her courage stands as a reminder that while cricket may be a unifying game, there’s still a long way to go before it becomes truly inclusive.
As debates around inclusion, identity, and fairness continue to evolve, Anaya’s story is not just about the game. It’s about dignity, equality, and the right to be seen — both on and off the field.
