The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), backed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and recognized by the Deaf International Cricket Council (DICC) and the Asian Deaf Cricket Association (ADCA), launched the 3rd U-19 T20 National Cricket Championship for the Deaf on Monday. The grand opening ceremony took place at Anantapur's RDT Stadium Cricket Ground.
Host and Participants
The championship is hosted by the Deaf Cricket Association of Andhra Pradesh (DCAAP) and brings together some of India's most promising young deaf cricketers. According to a press release, the event underscores IDCA's ongoing commitment to fostering inclusivity, excellence, and equal opportunities in sports.
A total of 10 teams from across the country are competing: Delhi, Mumbai, Haryana, Odisha, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Match Schedule and Trophies
The competition features 23 league matches scheduled from June 22 to 26, 2026, at Anantapur's RDT Stadium Cricket Ground. Trophies will be awarded to the overall champions, runners-up, and third-place teams.
Key Quotes from Officials
Sumit Jain, President of IDCA, stated, "I am delighted to see my dream gradually becoming a reality. The U19 3rd T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026 showcases some of India's finest young cricketers from across the country and celebrates the spirit, resilience, and talent of our deaf athletes." He expressed gratitude to Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla, Chairman of Serum Institute of India, for being the Principal Support Partner, and thanked the Cyrus Poonawalla Group and KFC India for their support.
Challagali Raghu, General Secretary of DCAAP, added, "We are delighted to host the IDCA U19 3rd T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. We are pleased to welcome teams from ten state deaf cricket associations invited by IDCA. Nurturing deaf cricket talent is truly a celebration, and we are proud to be members of IDCA. We look forward to a tournament that will create excitement, goodwill, and further promote the cause of deaf cricket in Andhra Pradesh."
