Srinagar, July 19: For the first time, the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) is organizing 5th One-Day National Zonal Cricket Championship for Deaf in Srinagar and eight specially abled men’s teams from various parts of the country are taking part in this tournament.
The opening ceremony was held on Wednesday (17th July) at Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Sonwar. Five hearing-impaired men’s cricket teams includes—South Zone, North Zone, Central Zone, West Zone, and East Zone are participating in this five-day tournament.
In the opening match, Deaf North Zone won the toss and elected to field. Deaf Central Zone scored 235/10 in 49.4 overs, with Sushil Yadav contributing 100 runs off 104 balls.
Suhail Ahmad and Maninder Singh each took 2 wickets. In response, Deaf North Zone achieved 236/4 in 36 overs, with Virender Singh scoring an unbeaten 80 off 83 balls and Akash Singh adding 62 runs off 35 balls.
Deepak Kumar took 2 wickets. Virender Singh was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 80 runs and taking 1 wicket.
In the 2nd match, Deaf East Zone won the toss and elected to field. Deaf West Zone scored 324/10 in 49.3 overs, with Jangir Ankit making 85 runs off 70 balls and Vipin Meena scoring 84 off 115 balls.
Munna Sarkar took 5 wickets. In response, Deaf East Zone managed 190/10 in 33.2 overs, with Abhishek Singh scoring 39 off 33 balls.
Sanju Sharma and Varad Gore each took 2 wickets. Jangir Ankit was named Player of the Match for his 85 runs and taking 2 wickets.
On the occasion, President, IDCA, Sumit Jain, said that they are grateful to all sponsors and Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association for their wholehearted support to our movement of supporting our forthcoming tournaments in the UT.
He highlighted the significance of their contributions in making the championship possible and emphasized how this support will further the IDCA’s mission of promoting cricket among the deaf community in the Union Territory.
Jain also acknowledged the dedication and hard work of the athletes, coaches, and organizers, commending their efforts in overcoming challenges to participate in the tournament. IDCA’s commitment to providing more opportunities and platforms for specially-abled cricketers to shine and inspire others, he added.
Jain further said that the two best teams will face each other in the final match scheduled for July 21st, 2024.
Dr. Suhail Ahmad Mir, President of the J & K Physiotherapists Association and an International Sports Physiotherapist, said it is truly an honor to be invited as the chief guest for the National Zonal Matches organized by IDCA.
“Real love and passion for your sport carry you through both good and bad times. I urge the Secretary of BCCI to wholeheartedly support IDCA in organizing such tournaments to encourage specially-abled cricket players in our country, thereby enhancing their performance in national competitions,” he said.
In-charge, Cricketing Development Activities, JKCA Srinagar, Majid Dar, said welcomed all the participants from across India. JKCA remains steadfast in our commitment to support and promote cricket, especially when led by the Indian Deaf Cricket Association for specially-abled individuals, he said.
Dar expressed his hope that the tournament would not only showcase exceptional talent but also inspire greater inclusivity and support for differently-abled athletes nationwide.
Chairman’ SEM College Humhama, Saif ud din Bhat expressed his admiration for the India Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA).
“We are absolutely delighted to acknowledge the remarkable efforts of the IDCA in championing opportunities for differently-abled athletes,” he said.
Bhat said that it is truly inspiring to see these talented individuals excel, with the IDCA providing a significant platform for their skills to shine.
Recently, exceptional youth triumphed in a match held in London, showcasing their extraordinary capabilities.
“The entire SEM College staff, wholeheartedly support this initiative and extend our heartfelt congratulations,” he said.
Bhat further said that Umar Ashraf, from Baramulla, whose cricketing prowess is nothing short of mesmerizing. His exceptional techniques and dedication to the sport are commendable.
IDCA was formed in 2020 by Sumit Jain, Vice President & member of DCCI (Differently-Abled Cricket Committee, BCCI) registered under the Societies Registration Act 1860 with the sole aim of promoting the game of Cricket amongst the deaf athletes of the country and to provide them the platform to showcase their talent and to represent their respective states at national level and country at international level.
Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) is a governing body for deaf cricket in India and a member of DICC (Deaf International Cricket Council) which closely works with ICC to promote Cricket amongst Deaf Cricketers globally. (Equal opportunities, protection of rights & full participation). It is solely dedicated to serving the cause of persons with disabilities.
Prior to forming IDCA, Deaf Cricket Society was established in 2012 and has nurtured & trained thousands of hearing-impaired cricketers over a decade to participate in state, national & international tournaments.
