PUNE (India CSR): HCLFoundation, which drives the corporate social responsibility agenda of HCLTech in India, is supporting the National T20 Tournament for the Visually Impaired, to be held in Pune from February 15-19, 2026.
Organized by The Poona Blind Men’s Association (PBMA) and the Blind Cricket Association (BCA), the tournament provides a national platform for visually impaired cricketers to showcase their talent while fostering inclusive sports across communities. A total of eight teams — representing Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Punjab — are competing in the tournament, with matches held at Deccan Gymkhana Ground and Tembekar Ground, Padmavati.
Ravi Wagh, President, Cricket Association for the Blind in Maharashtra, said “Since its inception in 2011, the T20 Blind Cricket Tournament has grown from a state-level competition in Pune to a nationally recognized platform, hosting multiple state, national and international events—including World Cup league matches and national team selections. We hope it continues to grow bigger.”
Rajesh Shah, President, The Poona Blind Men’s Association (PBMA), said “Over the years, the Blind Cricket Association, in partnership with The Poona Blind Men’s Association, has consistently championed the cause of inclusive sports, providing athletes with visual impairments opportunities for competitive participation across India, and we are proud of this association.”
“For the past decade, Sports for Change has enabled inclusive sports pathways across India, with strong focus on gender inclusion, grassroots development and elite coaching. The T20 tournament reiterates our belief in the power of sports to expand access, unlock potential and uphold dignity and excellence,” said Dr. Nidhi Pundhir, Director, HCLFoundation.
Launched in 2011 as a state-level event in Pune, the T20 Blind Cricket Tournament has grown into a nationally recognized platform, hosting major state, national and international matches, including World Cup league matches and national team selections.
All participating players will be provided with accommodation, meals, travel support, medical support, sports kits and local transport during the tournament.
HCLFoundation’s Sports for Change initiative empowers young athletes from underserved communities, alongside dedicated assistance for Indian para‑athletes through equipment and fellowship programs. The initiative has reached over 64,000 athletes to date, with 25 para‑athletes representing India internationally, and nearly Rs 2 crore invested in para sports.
(India CSR)
