The Divyang Cricket Control Board of India (DCCBI), in collaboration with the S4UA Foundation and the Divyang Wheelchair Cricket Association (DWCA), has introduced the All Ability National Divyang Cricket Tournament 2026. This initiative is geared towards fostering inclusive sports and enabling athletes with disabilities to demonstrate their skills.
Announcement Highlights
The official announcement took place during a press conference at The Celebration Sports Club in Mumbai, where the tournament’s trophy and T-shirt were revealed. The event was graced by actor Vardhan Puri, who expressed his admiration for the initiative and pledged his support to the participating athletes. He emphasized his intention to attend the matches in Mumbai, showcasing a commitment to furthering the cause of inclusive sports.
Key Attendees
The press conference saw the participation of several dignitaries, including:
- Shailaja Nair, President of the Inner Wheel Club of Bombay Seacoast
- Dilip Thakkar and Sunil Devnani, members of the Rotary Club of Bombay Seacoast
- Renuka Nair, Chairperson of The Celebration Sports Club
- Manish Sharma, Head Coach of the Indian Wheelchair Cricket Team
- Pooja Mehra, Founder of S4UA Foundation
- Ramesh Sartape, Joint Secretary of DCCBI
This assembly of supporters emphasizes the growing momentum behind the tournament.
Details of the Tournament
The All Ability National Divyang Cricket Championship will take place from November 1 to 4, 2026, at the Raje Shivaji Maharaj Sports Complex in Andheri West, Mumbai. The championship aims to provide athletes with disabilities a national stage to display their cricketing abilities, while also enhancing their competitive experience.
This year’s tournament will feature a diverse range of categories, including:
- Wheelchair cricket
- Standing cricket for players with physical disabilities
- Women’s disability cricket
Teams from Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Jammu and Kashmir will compete in wheelchair and standing cricket categories, while the women’s segment will showcase teams from Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. Additionally, an exhibition match between Mumbai Deaf Cricket and Vidarbha Deaf Cricket will further enrich the lineup.
Competitive Structure and Goals
A total of 13 matches will be played, including nine league matches, three finals, and one exhibition match, all utilizing a T20 format. This tournament not only seeks to maximize competitive exposure for athletes but also aims to increase awareness around disability cricket, encouraging greater public engagement with inclusive sports.
As Dr. Bhagwan Talware, Joint President of DCCBI, noted, the tournament stands as a crucial platform for disabled athletes to demonstrate their talents. He believes that every player deserves recognition and opportunities to succeed, highlighting the tournament's role in promoting inclusive sports.
Statements from Organizers
Haroon Rashid, General Secretary of DCCBI, underlined the goal of elevating disability cricket in India, stating, “Our focus is to create more opportunities and foster an environment where all players can thrive.” This sentiment echoes throughout the organizing bodies as they seek to empower more individuals to engage with sport, regardless of physical limitations.
Pooja Mehra emphasized the importance of providing platforms for children with special needs through sports and her commitment to making athletics an integral part of their everyday lives.
A Call for Support and Inclusion
The All Ability National Divyang Cricket Championship 2026 extends beyond mere competition; it embodies a commitment to equality, encouragement, and community. With Vardhan Puri’s involvement, the initiative is expected to gain more visibility and attract additional support for athletes with disabilities.
The guiding message, “One Nation. One Sport. One Spirit. One Inclusive Future,” reflects the intention to celebrate the capabilities of these players while striving towards a future where sports are accessible to everyone.
About the Organizing Bodies
The Divyang Wheelchair Cricket Association (DWCA) is committed to promoting inclusive cricket in Maharashtra, while the DCCBI focuses on developing disability cricket throughout India. The S4UA Foundation works towards creating opportunities for disadvantaged communities, amplifying the importance of sports as a vehicle for growth and empowerment.
