Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], May 23 (ANI): Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh booked their places in the final of the 5th Elite National Physical Disability Cricket Championship 2026 after registering impressive victories in their respective semifinal matches played in Bengaluru on Friday.

The grand finale of the prestigious national tournament will now be played on Sunday at the Sports Garden Cricket Ground, Bengaluru.

The championship is being organised under the aegis of the Karnataka Divyang Cricket Association, the affiliated state body of the Physically Challenged Cricket Association of India (PCCAI), said a release.

The tournament has emerged as a significant platform for physically challenged cricketers from across the country to showcase their talent, determination, and passion for the sport.

In the first semifinal, Mumbai produced a dominant all-round performance to defeat Maharashtra by 45 runs. Batting first, Mumbai posted a challenging total of 152/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Aakash Patil starred with a blistering unbeaten knock of 41 runs off just 18 deliveries, including five fours and two sixes. Rohan Bhoir contributed 28 runs, while Ravindra Sante added a valuable 23 runs to strengthen the innings.

Chasing 153 for victory, Maharashtra struggled against Mumbai's disciplined bowling attack and were bowled out for 107 in 18 overs. Somnath Ahire top-scored with 26 runs, while Satish Rathod made 22. Mumbai's Rohan Bhoir delivered the standout bowling performance of the match, claiming 5 wickets for just 12 runs, while Ravindra Sante supported brilliantly with three wickets.

The second semifinal witnessed Uttar Pradesh securing a hard-fought four-wicket victory over Haryana. Haryana, after being put in to bat, managed 98 runs in 16.4 overs. Vikramjeet played a fighting knock of 30 runs, while Asif Hussain and Sumit Gill contributed 17 and 16 runs respectively.

Uttar Pradesh bowlers maintained excellent control throughout the innings, with Md. Sadik claimed three crucial wickets. Kumar Rahul and Vintoo Yadav also chipped in with two wickets each to restrict Haryana to a modest total.

In reply, Uttar Pradesh chased down the target in 17 overs with six wickets in hand. Akshansh Chaudhary provided an aggressive start with 11 runs, while Kumar Rahul anchored the chase with a composed, unbeaten innings of 28 runs. Sumit Pal added 16 runs, and Chintu Choudhary remained unbeaten on 6 to guide the team into the final.

DCCI Secretary General Ravi Chauhan announced attractive prize money for the tournament. The winning team will receive Rs 2,50,000, while the runners-up will be awarded Rs 1,25,000. Both losing semifinalist teams will receive Rs 50,000 each. In addition, the Man of the Series award carries a cash prize of Rs 25,000, while the Best Batsman, Best Bowler, and Best Wicketkeeper awards will each receive Rs 10,000. Participating teams will also receive a special appreciation award of Rs 20,000.

Speaking about the championship, the organisers stated that the tournament aims to promote inclusive cricket and provide physically challenged athletes with greater exposure and competitive opportunities at the national level. The championship has received tremendous appreciation for the quality of cricket and the inspiring performances displayed by the players throughout the competition.

With both Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh carrying strong momentum into the summit clash, cricket fans can look forward to an exciting and highly competitive final on May 24 in Bengaluru. (ANI)