National Physical Disability Cricket: Maha, Haryana, UP, Mumbai in semis
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Maharashtra, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Mumbai have sealed their berths in the semifinals of the 5th Elite National Physical Disability Cricket Championship, after the league stage concluded on Friday, 22 May at Bengaluru. The four teams now advance to the last-four stage, setting up two high-stakes clashes at the Sports Garden Ground on Saturday.
How the Teams Qualified
Maharashtra and Haryana progressed from Group A with standout performances across the league phase. Uttar Pradesh and Mumbai secured their spots from Group B after completing their respective fixtures. Players from across the country demonstrated remarkable determination, discipline, and sportsmanship throughout the competition, making this edition highly competitive and widely praised by organisers.
Semifinal Schedule and Fixtures
Both semifinal matches will be held on Saturday at the Sports Garden Ground, Bengaluru. In the first semifinal, Mumbai will take on Maharashtra in what promises to be a fiercely contested regional rivalry. The second semifinal will see Haryana battle Uttar Pradesh. The winners of both ties will advance to the grand finale on Sunday.
DCCI on Young Talent and Future Plans
Disability Cricket Council of India (DCCI) Secretary Ravi Chauhan noted that the championship has unearthed several talented new faces, including a number of promising Under-19 cricketers, whose performances he described as 'highly impressive and encouraging for the future of disability cricket in India.' He added that the association is planning to organise a dedicated Under-19 National Championship in the near future to give young divyang cricketers a stronger platform at the national level.
Chauhan further stated that the association's vision extends beyond tournaments — it is committed to empowering physically challenged players economically and socially, with plans for larger national and international events to improve recognition, facilities, and financial support for athletes.
BCCI Outreach and Broader Ambitions
The Physically Challenged Cricket Association of India (PCCAI), which is hosting the championship through its affiliated body, the Karnataka State Divyang Cricket Association, is also a founder member of DCCI. Chauhan confirmed that the association will formally approach the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) through official communication, seeking enhanced support — covering infrastructure, opportunities, and financial assistance — for physically challenged cricketers nationwide.
Organisers have appealed to sports enthusiasts to attend the semifinal and final matches at the Sports Garden, Bengaluru, and cheer the athletes on. All participating teams will receive awards at the conclusion of the tournament.