Cricket beyond limits: How Kolkata is changing the game for differently abled cricketers

The two-day event took place at BKC College Grounds, Baranagar, on 25-26 December 2025, promising not just competitive cricket but an inspiring celebration of resilience and human spirit.

This tournament was more than a sporting event—it is a powerful statement on ability beyond disability. Each player has a story of courage: overcoming physical challenges, societal barriers, and personal hardships to pursue their passion for cricket. Their journey reflects the essence of sportsmanship—determination, teamwork, and hope, fighting against all odds.

On the occasion of Christmas, the organisers brought a cake from 6Pence Restaurant to celebrate with the four differently abled cricket teams. The four captains of West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar and Jharkhand joined together to cut the cake.

“The East Zone Tournament held in Kolkata, with participation from four teams, is a matter of great pride for us. This tournament marks an important step toward promoting differently-abled cricket in the East Zone. I would like to sincerely thank all the supporters who stood with us and continue to support disability cricket. We look forward to receiving the same encouragement and support in the future as well, as we aim to take disability cricket to greater heights,” said Ravi Chauhan, Secretary-General, Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI). 

“This tournament is about breaking stereotypes. These cricket players are role models of resilience and determination. We want the world to see that cricket belongs to everyone. I am truly grateful to our Patron, EIILM Kolkata and Supporting Partners, Heritage Bengal Global (Global Connect Group), The Holiday Hub, Thai Airways, Kolkata Society for Cultural Heritage, ARES Travels, Blackboard, Connections, Rotary Calcutta Metro City and our Food Partner, 6 Pence Restaurant for their immense contribution without which this tournament would not have been possible,” said Utpal Majumder, Secretary and Coach of WBCADA.

“Cricket gives me a reason to dream big. Every time I step onto the pitch, I feel equal, I feel strong,” said Rajesh Pradhan, a player of Odisha who won the Player of the Match of the finals.

The two-day tournament featured:

High-energy matches between zonal teams of West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar and Jharkhand. The final match was played between the Differently Abled Teams of Bihar and Odisha on 26 December 2025. Odisha Differently Abled cricket team were crowned the Champions of the Tournament.

The Champions will receive a Cash Prize of Rs. 25000 and the Runners Up will receive a Cash Prize of Rs. 15000 from DCCI.

The Holiday Hub has sponsored a Two-Night Stay for the Player of the Match of the Finals and the Player of the Series.

Thai Airways sponsored special goodie bags for the Player of the Matches of all 5 matches and the Umpires.

The students of Department of Sports Management, EIILM Kolkata volunteered in the tournament.

This Eastern Zonal Tournament was conducted with the support from WBCADA’s Patron, EIILM Kolkata and Supporting Partners: Heritage Bengal Global (Global Connect Group), The Holiday Hub, Thai Airways, Kolkata Society for Cultural Heritage, ARES Travels, Blackboard, Connections, Rotary Calcutta Metro City and our Food Partner, 6 Pence Restaurant.