Anantapur, June 27 (IANS) The third edition of the U-19 T20 National Cricket Championship for the Deaf 2026 wrapped up with Karnataka U-19 emerging as champions after defeating Haryana U-19 by five wickets. This tournament held particular significance for IDCA, as it reaffirmed their dedication to nurturing and developing the next generation of cricket talent nationwide.

The Karnataka team was awarded the trophy during a grand closing ceremony at the RDT Stadium Cricket Ground in Anantapur. Organised by the Deaf Cricket Association of Andhra Pradesh (DCAAP), the week-long championship showcased some of the country’s most talented young deaf cricketers, highlighting the Indian Deaf Cricket Association’s (IDCA) dedication to fostering inclusivity, equal opportunities, and excellence in sports.

A. Malola, District Revenue Officer (DRO) of Anantapur, attended as the Chief Guest for the closing ceremony. The event saw 10 state teams, Delhi, Mumbai, Haryana, Odisha, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh, compete in 23 league matches held from June 22 to 26, 2026.

The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) is backed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and is acknowledged by the Deaf International Cricket Council (DICC) as well as the Asian Deaf Cricket Association (ADCA).

Championship Final

Toss: Karnataka U19 won the toss and elected to field.

Haryana U19: 74 all out (15.5 overs)

Karnataka U19: 78/5 (13.5 overs)

Result: Karnataka U19 won by 5 wickets.

After an exciting week of competitive cricket, Karnataka U19 has been crowned the champions of the 3rd U-19 T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026.

Final Standings:

Champions: Karnataka U19

Runners-up: Haryana U19

Third Place: Delhi U19

Outstanding performances were recognised with the following awards

Best Batsman: Santih Shetty (Karnataka U19)

Best Bowler: M U Sagar (Karnataka U19)

Player of the Series: Santih Shetty (Karnataka U19)

Player of the Final Match: M U Sagar (Karnataka U19)

Speaking on the successful conclusion of the championship, Sumit Jain, president, IDCA, said, “The successful completion of the U-19 3rd T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026 is another proud milestone for Indian deaf cricket. Watching these talented young athletes compete with such determination, passion, and sportsmanship has been truly inspiring.

“I congratulate Karnataka on winning the championship and commend Haryana, Delhi, and every participating team for their remarkable performances. My heartfelt appreciation goes to our Principal Support Partner, Cyrus S. Poonawalla and the Serum Institute of India, along with the Cyrus Poonawalla Group, KFC India, and all our support partners whose unwavering encouragement continues to strengthen deaf cricket in India. Together, we are creating greater opportunities for deaf athletes to excel and represent the nation with pride.”

Challagali Raghu, general secretary, DCAAP, added, “It has been an honour for Andhra Pradesh to host this prestigious national championship. The enthusiasm, discipline, and talent displayed by all ten teams have made this tournament a memorable celebration of deaf cricket. We thank IDCA, the players, officials, volunteers, and our partners for making this event a grand success and look forward to hosting many more such championships in the future.”

–IANS

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