IDCA Launches 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf in Surat
IDCA 10th T20 National Cricket Championship Begins
Surat (Gujarat) [India], October 27: The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), in collaboration with the Deaf Cricket Association Surat (DCAS), has officially launched the IDCA 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026 in Surat, Gujarat. This event, running from October 26 to November 1, 2026, marks the first time Surat is hosting this championship, featuring 14 teams from various regions of India competing over the course of a week.
Tournament Overview and Format
The matches are taking place at Bawaji Cricket Ground, Bhatpore, Surat, with the tournament culminating in semi-finals and finals on November 1, 2026. This championship serves as a vital platform for players to exhibit their skills and competitive spirit. Organized by IDCA and supported by the Gujarat Deaf Cricket Association (GDCA) and DCAS, the tournament aims to enhance the visibility and reach of deaf cricket.
The participating teams include: 1. Andhra Pradesh 2. Haryana 3. Mumbai 4. Vidarbha 5. Rajasthan 6. Chhattisgarh 7. Kerala 8. Delhi 9. Chandigarh 10. Jammu & Kashmir 11. Tamil Nadu 12. Karnataka 13. Gujarat 14. Uttar Pradesh.
Insights from the Championship
Sumit Jain, President of IDCA, emphasized the importance of this championship, stating, "Our goal at IDCA is to provide deaf cricketers with significant opportunities to compete and develop their skills. This 10th edition underscores the necessity of organized competition for deaf athletes. Hosting in Surat allows us to reach new audiences and engage more stakeholders in the sport's growth."
Jigar Thakkar, General Secretary of DCAS, expressed pride in Surat hosting this national event for the first time, highlighting the enthusiasm and talent of the teams involved. He thanked all contributors for their support in making the championship a success.
Tejas Parmar, IAS, Collector and District Magistrate of Surat District, who was the Chief Guest at the opening ceremony, remarked, "Sport fosters inclusion and recognizes talent based on merit. It is a proud moment for Surat to host this championship, and I extend a warm welcome to all participants and supporters."
Acknowledgments and Contributions
As the championship progresses towards its conclusion on November 1, it continues to provide deaf cricketers with a national platform to showcase their talent. The collaborative efforts of IDCA, GDCA, DCAS, and various sponsors are crucial in strengthening the foundation for deaf cricket in India.
IDCA expresses its heartfelt thanks to the Serum Institute of India and Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla, its principal sponsor, for their ongoing support, which has been vital for the successful organization of this championship. Additional sponsors include KFC India, RB Foundation, and several others, whose contributions are instrumental in promoting deaf cricket in India.
Conclusion
In its 10th edition, the championship continues to provide deaf cricketers with a structured competitive environment to test their abilities. By uniting teams from across India in Surat, IDCA is advancing its mission to enhance participation, encourage excellence in sports, and elevate the recognition of deaf cricket and its athletes.