Indian Blind Cricket Team Prepares for Asia Cup 2026 with Strong Support

The Indian Men's Cricket Team for the Blind is set to compete in the Asia Cup 2026, with a send-off event held in New Delhi. Supported by CBRE and BCCI, the team aims to reclaim the title they last won a decade ago. The tournament will take place from November 15 to 20 in Dhaka, Bangladesh, featuring matches against Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Key figures from CBRE and CABI expressed their commitment to supporting the team, ensuring they have the necessary resources for success. As the team departs as defending champions, excitement builds for their journey ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 12, 2026, 23:48 IST

Send-Off Event for the Indian Blind Cricket Team

The Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), affiliated with the Samarthanam Trust, organized a send-off event and press conference in New Delhi for the Indian Men's Cricket Team for the Blind as they gear up for the Asia Cup 2026.

Asia Cup 2026 Details

Scheduled from November 15 to 20, 2026, at Anvir Cricket Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh, the Indian team aims to reclaim the Asia Cup title they last held a decade ago, competing against top blind cricket teams from across Asia, as stated in a press release from CABI.

Corporate Support from CBRE

CBRE, through its Ek Pehal initiative, has partnered with CABI and Samarthanam Trust to support the Indian Men's Cricket Team for the Blind in their preparations for the tournament. This support encompasses player selection, coaching, nutrition, fitness, physiotherapy, travel logistics, and essential cricket gear, ensuring the players are well-prepared for the competition.

Team Departure and Kit Distribution

The event marked the team's departure to Dhaka as they prepare to defend their title. Anshuman Magazine and Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar presented cricket kits to the players, acknowledging their dedication ahead of the tournament.

BCCI's Support for the Team

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also shown its support by sponsoring round-trip airfare from New Delhi to Dhaka for the Asia Cup. This aligns with BCCI's ongoing commitment to assist the team with international travel arrangements.

Insights from Key Figures

During the event, Anshuman Magazine highlighted CBRE's ongoing collaboration with Samarthanam and CABI, while Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar discussed the team's preparations and the advancement of blind cricket in India. Captain Durga Rao Tompaki shared updates on the team's training and expectations for the tournament.

Statements from CBRE and Samarthanam

Anshuman Magazine stated, “Sport has the ability to create opportunities, challenge perceptions, and unite communities. Through Ek Pehal and our partnership with Samarthanam and CABI, CBRE is dedicated to supporting both men's and women's blind cricket teams at every stage of their preparation. We believe that providing athletes with the right resources is crucial for their success.”

Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar expressed gratitude towards CBRE for their commitment, emphasizing the importance of professional training and recognition for the Men's Blind Cricket team. He wished the team success in representing India and bringing home another victory.

BCCI's Encouragement

Devajit Saikia, BCCI Honorary Secretary, extended best wishes to the Indian Men's Cricket Team for the Blind as they prepare to defend their title in Dhaka. He praised the team's skill and determination, hoping they carry that confidence into the tournament.

Asia Cup 2026 Squad Announcement

The squad for the Indian Men's Cricket Team for the Blind includes: Naresh Tumda, Sanjay Kumar Shah, Debaraj Behera, Ashok Reddy, Praveen Kumar Sharma, Mukesh Kumar Rawat, Dunna Venkateshwararao, Rambir Singh, Lokesha, Manish Kumar, Nakula Badanayak, Durga Rao Tompaki (C), Sunil Ramesh (VC), Sukhram Majhi, A Ravi (WK), Dinesh Rathva, and Deepak.

Tournament Schedule

India will kick off the tournament against Sri Lanka on November 15 at 1:30 PM IST, followed by a match against Pakistan on November 17 at the same time. They will then face Bangladesh on November 19 at 9:30 AM IST, with the final scheduled for November 20 at 11:30 AM IST. All matches will take place at the Anvir Cricket Stadium in Dhaka.