Cricket Beyond Sight: State-Level Blind Cricket Tournament Inspires Mangaluru

By Editor

Posted on February 12, 2026

Cricket Beyond Sight: State-Level Blind Cricket Tournament Inspires Mangaluru

Mangaluru : A state-level blind cricket tournament for high school students was recently organized in Mangaluru by Lions Club Valencia in collaboration with CODP Mangalore Diocese. The tournament featured four prominent teams from Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, Bengaluru, and Mysuru, showcasing incredible sporting skills and determination. The event followed a six-over format, adhering to the specific international rules governing blind cricket, where the game revolves around the sound of a ball embedded with small bells (gejje).

The competition strictly followed the categorization of players based on their level of visual impairment: B-1 (fully blind), B-2, and B-3 (partially sighted). Each playing eleven was required to have a combination of four B-1, four B-2, and three B-3 players. A unique rule of the game dictates that for B-1 players, every single run scored is counted as two, and they are provided with substitute runners. Bowling is conducted under-arm, and it is mandatory for the bowler to give an audible signal before releasing the ball to alert the batsman.

This tournament holds historical significance as it first began in Mangaluru in 1997. After a long hiatus of 25 years, it was revived last year at the Karavali Ground. Organizing committee member Leslie D’Souza noted that while eight institutions were invited, four participated this year, with the organizers handling all travel, accommodation, and catering for the athletes. The winners were awarded a cash prize of ₹20,000, while the runners-up received ₹15,000.

The event was inaugurated by former District Governor Lion M. B. Sadashiva, with blessings from Rev. Fr. Vincent D’Souza, Director of CODP Mangalore Diocese. Dignitaries including Anil Lobo, Chairman of MCC Bank, and various Lions Club officials graced the occasion. Players like Spandan and Team Captain Harsha expressed their gratitude for such platforms, emphasizing that while they lack sight, their resolve remains unshaken. The tournament served as a powerful symbol of equal opportunity and self-confidence, proving that sportsmanship transcends physical limitations.