Greater Noida, 03 May (H.S.):

The 5th National Wheelchair Cricket Championship 2026, organised by the Wheelchair Cricket India Association (WCIA), has been officially launched at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida. The tournament was inaugurated on Saturday by renowned film actor Jackie Shroff in the presence of players, officials, and supporters of adaptive sports.

The prestigious event will run from 3 to 10 May, featuring top wheelchair‑cricket teams from across India competing in an exciting “Super 5” grand‑final format that showcases the highest level of wheelchair cricket in the country. The tournament aims to highlight the talent, resilience, and competitive spirit of specially‑abled athletes while promoting inclusive sports on a national platform.

During the opening ceremony, Jackie Shroff expressed deep admiration for the players’ passion and determination, sharing a motivational message with the audience. “My message to all is to stay fearless in life,” he said. “These players are putting on an incredible performance, and I have been truly moved by their spirit and commitment. I want to come back every year and support them, and I urge sponsors and big companies to step forward and back this inspiring sport.”

Emphasising the broader significance of the event, Dr. Ravi Kant Chauhan, Secretary of the Divyang Cricket Council of India (DCCI), spoke about the vital role of institutional support in promoting inclusivity in sports. “The 5th National Wheelchair Cricket Championship is a powerful testament to the courage and fighting spirit of these athletes,” he said. “Platforms like this ensure that talent is recognised far beyond physical limitations. We are committed to backing initiatives that champion inclusion and give specially‑abled cricketers equal opportunities to perform at the national level.”

The Wheelchair Cricket India Association continues to play a pivotal role in empowering athletes and promoting wheelchair cricket across the country, with this championship standing out as one of its flagship events. The 10‑day tournament promises high‑quality cricket, intense competition, and a strong statement of disability‑inclusive sporting culture in India.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar