Kolkata, Dec 18 (NationPress) The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) celebrated the launch of the 4th edition of the Test National Cricket Championship for Deaf on Thursday with a spectacular opening ceremony at Merlin Rise Pavilion, Kolkata.

This nearly week-long cricket series will feature two semifinal matches taking place simultaneously at Kolkata’s Merlin Rise Cricket Ground and Rajasthan Club Ground from December 18 to 23. The victorious teams will face off for the champion’s trophy in the Final Test match scheduled from December 21 to 23.

In the first semifinal, Delhi will clash with Bengal, while the second semifinal will see Odisha compete against Jammu and Kashmir for a spot in the Final. Delhi won the toss against Bengal and chose to bowl first, while Jammu and Kashmir opted to bowl after winning their toss against Odisha.

The IDCA’s 4th Test National Cricket Championship for the Deaf is being conducted with the support of the Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla Group and runs from December 18 to 23, 2025, showcasing some of the finest hearing-impaired cricketers from across four states.

Sumit Jain, President of IDCA, remarked, “The 4th Test National Cricket Championship for the Deaf serves as a rigorous platform for all players, as it consists of two innings over three days. Although the players are accustomed to shorter formats, a Test match will challenge their fitness levels and consistency over four innings in three days.

“Through this series, we aim to honor the spirit, resilience, and talent of our hearing-impaired athletes and exhibit our determination. Thanks to the generous backing from the Cyrus Poonawalla Group, Merlin Rise Group, and our partners, we are creating a robust platform for differently-abled cricketers to shine nationally,” he added.

Expressing gratitude towards the supportive partners, Roma Balwani, CEO of IDCA, stated, “I am thrilled that the 4th Test National Cricket Championship is hosted in Kolkata. Our mission to unite talented players who embody the strength of inclusivity in sports is made possible through our partners' unwavering support. I extend special thanks to our venue partner, Merlin Rise Pavilion, for this exceptional location and to EIILM - Kolkata for their volunteers and immense support.”

The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) was established in 2020 by Sumit Jain, who is also the Vice President and a member of the DCCI (Differently Abled Cricket Committee, BCCI). Registered under the Societies Registration Act 1860, IDCA is dedicated to fostering cricket among deaf athletes in India and providing opportunities at state, national, and international levels.

Anirban Kumar Mukhopadhyay, Founder Chairman of Heritage Global Bengal, officially inaugurated the Test series and shared, “I genuinely hope some players here will represent India’s main team someday because I know it’s achievable. A Divyang player who played for the Indian team became one of the best googly bowlers we’ve had. I draw immense inspiration from him and all of you, as I believe you can achieve what I cannot. Keep inspiring us all.”

Mukhopadhyay was accompanied by Abhijit Ghosh, Director (HR & CA), and Romon Sebastian Louis, Director (Service Business) - Balmer Lawrie & Co. Ltd, as guests of honor.