James Dixon named Lord’s Taverners Disability Cricketer of the Year

Now in its ninth year, the award celebrates the outstanding contributions of disability cricketers both on and off the field. It recognises not only exceptional sporting performance but also efforts to promote inclusion and raise awareness of disability cricket across the wider community.

James has enjoyed a remarkable season, representing the England mixed disability squad in their summer series win against India. Making his debut in the fourth IT20 at Worcester, he delivered sensational bowling figures of 4-1-11-5. Over the course of the series, he played three matches, bowled 11 overs, and took 10 wickets for just 49 runs—an impressive average of 4.9.

Across all disability cricket this year, James bowled 31 overs, and claimed 18 wickets for 126 runs, maintaining a striking average of 7. His club performances at Sefton Park CC were equally impressive, with a bowling average of 13.71, an economy rate of 3.1, and a standout best of 7 for 20.

Beyond the pitch, James is a powerful role model—an inspiring figure within the deaf community who champions inclusion and encourages young deaf people to engage in sport. His dedication and visibility in mainstream cricket make him a shining example of what’s possible through passion and perseverance.

He said: “This award makes me very proud of myself and the life I’ve had in cricket - representing England for 20 years.  

“I’d like to thank the ECB and Lord’s Taverners for awarding this to me, I’ll always remember it. I hope Bill Higginson MBE, who was instrumental in the introduction of disability cricket and sadly passed away one week after the D40 final I played in this summer, would have been proud that I’ve received this award.

“Having this award will help show young children with a disability that there can be recognition for you, and it’s nice to have an influence on them as a role model.”