Excitement Unleashed: 31st Sub-Junior National Baseball Championship Begins in Bhubaneswar

The 31st Sub-Junior National Baseball Championship 2026 has officially begun in Bhubaneswar, attracting participants and sports enthusiasts nationwide. The event, marked by a vibrant opening ceremony, aims to promote baseball in India. Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, President of the Amateur Baseball Federation, announced plans for an International Baseball Academy in collaboration with local universities. With notable guests and a commitment to sportsmanship, this championship promises to be a significant event for young athletes. Discover more about the exciting developments and the future of baseball in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 25, 2026, 12:23 IST

Inauguration of the Championship

Bhubaneswar: The 31st Sub-Junior National Baseball Championship 2026 kicked off on Sunday at the KISS Stadium Campus–1, creating a lively and spirited atmosphere filled with players, officials, dignitaries, and sports enthusiasts from all over the nation.

Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, the President of the Amateur Baseball Federation of India, commended Odisha for its successful hosting of this esteemed national championship. He pledged to enhance baseball's profile at the national level and urged young athletes to embody the values of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Moreover, Mohanty unveiled an ambitious plan aimed at advancing baseball in India.

He expressed his dedication to establishing an International Baseball Academy in partnership with KIIT and KISS University, which will feature top-notch sports facilities.

The tournament was officially opened by the chief guest, Achyuta Samanta, the founder of KIIT and KISS, who received a warm welcome and enthusiastic applause from the attendees.

The event was further honored by the presence of Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, Registrar of KIIT University, and Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor of KIIT University, as distinguished guests.

The program featured speeches from several notable figures in the baseball community. Sibananda Pradhan, General Secretary of the Baseball Association of Odisha, delivered the tournament report.

Prabodh Mohanty, President of the Baseball Association of Odisha, emphasized the increasing significance of Odisha in fostering baseball and grassroots sports development, extending a warm welcome to all participants at this grand event.