Inauguration of the 3rd U-19 T20 National Cricket Championship for the Deaf

The 3rd U-19 T20 National Cricket Championship for the Deaf has officially commenced in Anantapur, showcasing the talents of young deaf cricketers from across India. Supported by the IDCA and BCCI, this event emphasizes inclusivity and equal opportunities in sports. With 23 matches scheduled, the championship aims to celebrate the resilience and skills of deaf athletes. Key figures like Sumit Jain and Challagali Raghu have expressed their excitement and gratitude towards the support received. This tournament promises to be a significant step forward for deaf cricket in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 22, 2026, 23:39 IST

Celebrating Inclusivity in Cricket

The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), with backing from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and recognized by both 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 event kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony at the RDT Stadium Cricket Ground in Anantapur.

This championship, organized by the Deaf Cricket Association of Andhra Pradesh (DCAAP), unites some of the most talented young deaf cricketers from across India. It underscores IDCA's ongoing dedication to fostering inclusivity, excellence, and equal opportunities in sports, as highlighted in a recent press release.

The tournament will consist of 23 league matches scheduled from June 22 to June 26, 2026, at the RDT Stadium Cricket Ground in Anantapur. Trophies will be awarded to the champions, runners-up, and third-place teams.

Sumit Jain, President of IDCA, expressed his excitement about the championship, stating, “It’s fulfilling to see my vision come to life. The U19 3rd T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026 highlights some of India’s best young cricketers and celebrates the spirit, resilience, and talent of our deaf athletes. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla, Chairman of Serum Institute of India, for being our Principal Support Partner and for his steadfast support. The IDCA family is truly grateful for the encouragement from the Cyrus Poonawalla Group and KFC India, along with all our support partners for their generous contributions and guidance.”

Challagali Raghu, General Secretary of DCAAP, remarked, “We are thrilled to host the IDCA U19 3rd T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. We are excited to welcome teams from ten state deaf cricket associations invited by IDCA. Supporting deaf cricket talent is a celebration, and we are proud to be part of IDCA. We anticipate a tournament that will foster excitement, goodwill, and further advance the cause of deaf cricket in Andhra Pradesh.”

The championship features 10 teams from various regions:

1) Delhi

2) Mumbai

3) Haryana

4) Odisha

5) Karnataka

6) Madhya Pradesh

7) Gujarat

8) Andhra Pradesh

9) Telangana

10) Uttar Pradesh.